Creating colourful summer planters
As the sun comes out, Britain begins to bloom. In fact, we think that there are few sights lovelier than swathes of flowers in squares, parks and on the streets on a sunny day.
Planters, baskets and hanging baskets bring the perfect solution to brighten up areas where there is no soil. Each container gives gardeners the opportunity to unleash their creativity, and can transform an area’s visual appeal. So, if you are planning your Britain in Bloom displays, planting up a public area or want to use containers in to create an impact in your garden, what plants should you choose?
Of course the list is pretty much endless, so we have chosen just a few of our favourites. If you want a long lasting display you should choose plants that will continue to flower throughout the season. Hardy perennials such as lavender are always good to include, whilst suitable bedding plants include nasturtium, begonias and marigolds.
The classic recipe for mixed plant containers requires at least three different types of plants: the thriller, the spiller and the filler. Firstly, you need the centre piece - the thriller plant. Then the spiller softens the edges and creates curves or adds height. Finally, the filler (often a foliage plants) completes the look by providing ‘padding’ in the middle.
Suggestions for:
- Thriller plants: dahlia, aster, fuchsia, lantana, lavender, snapdragons, verbena
- Spiller plants: begonia, busy lizzies, petunia, sweet peas, geranium
- Filler plants: dianthus, gypsophilia, jasmine, heliotrope, laurentia
One way of ensuring a great summer display is to use self-watering planters. Amberol’s self-watering containers and hanging baskets contain a series of high capacity capillary-action wicks. Self-watering planters only need to be topped up with water once a week - meaning that plants stay healthier for longer whilst saving you time and money.
Click here for more information about our self-watering containers.
