Best Patio Container Plant - Ask Extension
I have recently purchased a pair of these planters (https://www.acehardware.com/departments/lawn-and-garden/planters/flower-pots/7507312?store=17570&a...
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Best Patio Container Plant #817093
Asked November 30, 2022, 4:30 PM EST
I have recently purchased a pair of these planters (https://www.acehardware.com/departments/lawn-and-garden/planters/flower-pots/7507312?store=17570&gclid=Cj0KCQiAm5ycBhCXARIsAPldzoW-7hQ0-RUzwpwt9ZlZSMe0a21_kJs7rC6eGR1bwHlhoAUlCtGroaAaAp7REALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds) to replace a pair of ceramic pots that were the same size. The pots are on either side of my front patio and get sun all day but will also get some wind and rain. I need to plant them with something and I'm looking for suggestions that would look good year round and do well. I have previously tried Greensphere Manzanita and Champion Hebes in the ceramic pots. The Manzanita did well for a few years but then suddenly died. One of the Hebes did well while the other did not. Any suggestions of what I can plant that would look good year round and do well in a pot that size?
Washington County Oregon
Expert Response
Thank you for your question, Esther. The possibilities are endless, but you might want to start by reading this WSU Extension piece: https://s3.wp.wsu.edu/uploads/sites/2073/2020/05/05-11-18_Container-Gardening.pdf
Critical to the success of the plants themselves is that it/they have adequate space for roots, to allow water and nutrients to reach them. While you can combine more than one species, they need to share similar water and sun requirements. You can help soil water retention by mulching. You might want to try a small (dwarf or patio) perennial, and rotate annuals for variety. This OSU Extension handout has some species suggestions: https://extension.oregonstate.edu/sites/default/files/documents/12281/containerplanting.pdf
I hope this helps. Good luck!
Critical to the success of the plants themselves is that it/they have adequate space for roots, to allow water and nutrients to reach them. While you can combine more than one species, they need to share similar water and sun requirements. You can help soil water retention by mulching. You might want to try a small (dwarf or patio) perennial, and rotate annuals for variety. This OSU Extension handout has some species suggestions: https://extension.oregonstate.edu/sites/default/files/documents/12281/containerplanting.pdf
I hope this helps. Good luck!
