Creating a flourishing container garden requires more than just green thumbs – it also demands thoughtful consideration of the pots, planters, and other containers you should use.

The most suitable containers will look good and play a vital role in your plants’ overall health and growth. 

Plant baskets and planter boxes

Plant baskets and box planters are versatile, making them an excellent choice for container gardening.

• Plant baskets, made from woven reeds or twigs, offer rustic appeal. They’re excellent for trailing plants like ivy and create a relaxed atmosphere in the garden. However, note that plant baskets may dry out faster than other containers, so you should water them often.
  
  
• Box planters made from wood or composite materials are a classic choice for novice and experienced gardeners and ideal for organised plant arrangements. One advantage of planter boxes is their versatility – you can place them on patios, decks, or directly on the ground. A drawback is that wooden boxes deteriorate over time. However, you can make them last longer with proper drainage.

Wall plants and herb planters

Maximise space and add an artistic touch to your garden with wall plants and wood planters. 

Vertical gardening is an excellent solution if you have limited space. Wall plants in hanging pockets or wall-mounted containers allow you to grow various plants without sacrificing valuable ground space. Just keep the weight-bearing capacity of your wall in mind. Also, make sure you water plants evenly.

Herb planters offer the convenience of having fresh herbs at your fingertips. These containers come in various sizes and materials, from small ceramic pots to larger wooden boxes. Make sure you place the planter where your herbs will get plenty of sunlight, and check that the planter has good drainage to prevent waterlogging.

Garden pots 

Pots remain very popular for container gardening. They also come in a variety of materials, each with pros and cons.

• Terracotta pots are porous, which promotes good airflow to plant roots. They’re ideal for plants that prefer dry conditions but may need more frequent watering.
  
  
• Glazed ceramic pots have a smooth, water-resistant surface that retains moisture for longer. Just be mindful not to overwater plants that grow in these containers.
  
  
• Barrel pots can be made from wood or resin, adding a natural, rustic aesthetic to your space. The big ones are very spacious, allowing for extensive root growth. Note, however, that wood may deteriorate over time.
  
  
• Plastic pots are an easy-to-clean, budget-friendly choice. They’re also much lighter than glazed or terracotta pots and, therefore, easier to move around. Additionally, they retain water better than terracotta pots.

Potting up for success

Regardless of the container you choose, the key to successful container gardening lies in proper potting technique:

• Use a high-quality potting mix that provides the right balance of nutrients and drainage for your plants. 
• Make sure your containers have drainage holes to prevent soggy roots, and always add a layer of gravel or stones at the bottom to enhance drainage.
• Regularly inspect your plants for signs of overwatering or underwatering, and adjust your watering schedule accordingly. 
• Fertilise your container plants according to their specific needs.
• Be mindful of the sunlight requirements of each plant.
  

Take advantage of our pot promotion

Get your container garden going with our pot promotion this November. You get 50% off a wide variety of containers in-store and online.

(PS: Did you know that if you buy your plant, pot, soil, and drainage stones from us in one go, our expert staff will help to pot your plants? Bonus!)