What to Fill Large Planters With to Create Stunning Garden Displays
What to Fill Large Planters With?
When filling large planters, there are several options to consider.
Firstly, it is important to choose non-toxic materials that do not disintegrate quickly for the bottom of the planter.
This can include styrofoam packing peanuts, cardboard, natural materials such as bark and pine cones, polystyrene, or rocks.
The planter should be positioned before filling it, as it becomes heavy once filled with soil and plants.
Watering the plants thoroughly before positioning them in the planter is also important.
When it comes to arranging the flowers, the concept of choosing a thriller, fillers, and spillers can be helpful.
Some examples of thriller plants are ornamental grasses and small ornamental trees, while fillers can include petunias, geraniums, begonias, and nemesia.
Ivy, trailing fuchsia, or lobelia can be used as spillers.
Watering the flowers in large planters and not overwatering is a key consideration.
It is also recommended to change the soil in a large planter once a year.
There is a wide range of options for filling large planters, including using eco-friendly lightweight fillers made from household items, or heavy-duty materials such as gravel, rocks, or sand.
Consulting a local garden center or nursery for any concerns regarding filler materials is advised.
Ultimately, getting creative and experimenting with different materials can lead to a unique and interesting planter.
Key Points:
- Choose non-toxic materials for the bottom of the planter such as styrofoam packing peanuts, cardboard, natural materials, polystyrene, or rocks.
- Position the planter before filling it, as it becomes heavy once filled with soil and plants.
- Water plants thoroughly before positioning them in the planter.
- Consider using thriller plants, fillers, and spillers for arranging flowers.
- Water flowers in large planters carefully and avoid overwatering.
- Change the soil in a large planter once a year and consider using eco-friendly lightweight fillers or heavy-duty materials such as gravel, rocks, or sand.
Did You Know?
1. Contrary to popular belief, using a single type of plant in a large planter is not always the best approach. Mixing different plants with varying textures, colors, and heights can create a more visually appealing and dynamic display.
2. When filling large planters, it is essential to ensure proper drainage. Placing a layer of small stones or broken pottery at the bottom of the planter can prevent water from pooling and damaging the roots of the plants.
3. For a creative and unique touch, consider incorporating edibles into your large planters. Certain vegetables, herbs, and fruits can be grown successfully in containers, providing both beauty and functionality to your outdoor space.
4. Adding a layer of insulation at the bottom of large planters can protect plants’ roots from temperature fluctuations. Materials such as Styrofoam or even bubble wrap can serve as effective insulation.
5. To achieve a lush and full appearance, consider using a combination of annuals and perennials when filling large planters. Annuals provide vibrant and long-lasting blooms, while perennials add structure and texture, ensuring a beautiful display throughout the seasons.
Filler Options For Large Planters
Filling large planters with flowers can create maximum interest and beauty in an outdoor space. When selecting flowers, it is important to consider the filler options for the bottom of the planter. The filler materials not only provide support but also aid in proper drainage.
One popular option for filling the bottom of large planters is styrofoam packing peanuts. These lightweight peanuts provide excellent drainage and help reduce the overall weight of the planter. Another option is cardboard, which acts as a barrier between the soil and filler materials, while also providing adequate drainage.
For those who prefer natural materials, bark, pine cones, and twigs can be used as filler options. These natural fillers not only provide drainage but also add an organic touch to the planter. Polystyrene and rocks are also commonly used as filler materials. However, it is important to ensure that the chosen materials are non-toxic and do not disintegrate quickly.
- Styrofoam packing peanuts provide excellent drainage and reduce weight
- Cardboard acts as a barrier and provides adequate drainage
- Natural materials such as bark, pine cones, and twigs add an organic touch
- Polystyrene and rocks are also commonly used fillers
Tips For Positioning And Preparing The Planter
Before filling the large planter, it is essential to consider the location and visibility of the planter. Once filled with soil and plants, the planter becomes heavy and difficult to move. Therefore, it is advisable to position the planter in its desired location before filling it.
Before adding the plants, it is recommended to thoroughly water them. This ensures that the plants are well-hydrated and minimizes the risk of shock when transplanted into the planter. Additionally, considering the direction and visibility of the planter is crucial when positioning the plants. This allows for a visually appealing arrangement and ensures that each plant receives the necessary light.
When planting the flowers, it is important to start with the largest plant first. This serves as the focal point or the “thriller” plant in the arrangement. Once the thriller plant is in place, the remaining gaps can be filled with smaller plants or “fillers”. It is essential to plant each plant at the same depth as its original pot to maintain optimum growing conditions.
- Consider the location and visibility of the planter
- Position the planter before filling it with soil and plants
- Thoroughly water the plants before adding them to the planter
- Plant the largest plant first as the focal point
- Fill the remaining gaps with smaller plants or “fillers”
- Plant each plant at the same depth as its original pot
“Before filling the large planter, it is essential to consider the location and visibility of the planter. Once filled with soil and plants, the planter becomes heavy and difficult to move. Therefore, it is advisable to position the planter in its desired location before filling it.”
Arranging Flowers In A Large Planter
Arranging flowers in a large planter involves using the concept of choosing a “thriller”, “fillers”, and “spillers”.
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The thriller plants are usually tall and make a statement, such as ornamental grasses, small ornamental trees, canna, or tall dahlias. These plants provide height and drama to the arrangement.
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The filler plants are used to fill the gaps between the thriller plants. Some popular options for filler plants include petunias, geraniums, begonias, and nemesia. These plants add color and texture to the arrangement, creating a full and vibrant display.
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To complete the arrangement, spillers are added to cascade over the edges of the planter. Ivy, trailing fuchsia, or lobelia are excellent choices for spillers. Their trailing habit adds a touch of elegance and softness to the arrangement.
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Thriller plants for height and drama:
- ornamental grasses
- small ornamental trees
- canna
- tall dahlias
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Filler plants for filling the gaps:
- petunias
- geraniums
- begonias
- nemesia
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Spillers for cascading effect:
- ivy
- trailing fuchsia
- lobelia
Arranging flowers in a large planter involves utilizing the concept of thriller, fillers, and spillers. The thriller plants, such as ornamental grasses, small ornamental trees, canna, or tall dahlias, provide height and drama. Filler plants, such as petunias, geraniums, begonias, and nemesia, fill the gaps, adding color and texture. Finally, spillers like ivy, trailing fuchsia, or lobelia cascade over the edges of the planter, adding an elegant touch.
Watering And Maintaining Flowers In Large Planters
Proper watering is crucial to the health and longevity of flowers in large planters. It is important to strike a balance between providing enough water for the plants to thrive, while also ensuring that they are not overwatered.
One effective method is to water the plants thoroughly before positioning them in the planter. This allows the plants to hydrate fully and promotes healthy root growth. It is also important to check the moisture level regularly and water the plants as needed. However, overwatering should be avoided as it can lead to root rot and other water-related issues.
Maintaining flowers in large planters also involves changing the soil once a year. This helps replenish the nutrients that the plants have consumed and promotes healthy growth. It is recommended to consult a local garden center or nursery for guidance on the best soil for specific plants and how often to change it.
- Water the plants thoroughly before placing them in the planter
- Regularly check the moisture level and water as needed
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
- Change the soil once a year to replenish nutrients and promote healthy growth
Note: It is crucial to find a balance in watering to ensure the health and longevity of flowers in large planters.
Eco-Friendly And Heavy-Duty Filler Materials For Large Planters
For those who prefer eco-friendly options, there are various lightweight fillers that can be made from household items. Plastic bottles can be cut into small pieces and used as filler material. Similarly, styrofoam packing peanuts can be repurposed from packaging materials. Pool noodles and pine cones are also viable options for fillers in large planters.
Alternatively, heavy-duty filler materials can be used for added stability and durability. Gravel, rocks, bricks, logs, and sand are popular choices for larger planters. These materials not only provide excellent drainage but also ensure that the planter remains sturdy and secure.
To simplify the process of changing soil or moving plants from a large planter, it is recommended to use landscaping barrier fabric between the filler and the soil. This fabric acts as a barrier, making it easier to remove the soil or transplant the plants if needed.
When considering different options for filling large planters, it is important to remember that regardless of the filler material used, plants require light, water, and a suitable growing medium to thrive. If there are concerns or questions about specific filler materials, it is always best to consult a local garden center or nursery for advice.
Filling large planters with flowers can create stunning garden displays. By carefully considering the filler options, positioning and preparing the planter, arranging the flowers, and maintaining them properly, outdoor spaces can be transformed into beautiful and inviting areas. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different filler materials to create a unique and personalized planter display.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What can I use to fill the bottom of a large planter?
To fill the bottom of a large planter, you have several options available. One interesting option would be to use clean foam take-out containers or Styrofoam packing materials. These materials provide a lightweight and insulating filler, allowing for proper drainage and aeration for the plants while reducing the overall weight of the planter. Another creative option would be to use aluminum soda cans, which are both durable and lightweight. By stacking them in the bottom of the planter, they can create a sturdy foundation while also allowing for drainage. Both of these options make use of recyclable materials and provide an eco-friendly solution for filling the bottom of a large planter.
Alternatively, you could also consider using a combination of unused nursery pots and non-dissolvable packing peanuts. This combination provides a stable base for the planter while allowing for proper drainage and preventing soil compaction. The unused nursery pots can be arranged at the bottom of the planter, creating a layered system, and the non-dissolvable packing peanuts can be scattered between the pots. This not only provides an effective solution for filling the bottom of the planter but also repurposes materials that might otherwise go to waste.
What can I put in a large planter besides plants?
In addition to live herbs for the kitchen, a large planter can be filled with a variety of unique and decorative items. For instance, you can create an aesthetic display by placing keys, utensils, wallets, or decorative balls for bowls in the planter. Another option could be incorporating pampas grass or easy-care plants into the arrangement for a touch of natural beauty. Additionally, wooden chains and beads, candles, or even a creative toilet bowl plunger holder can add a whimsical and functional element to the planter. The possibilities are endless when it comes to filling a large planter with items beyond traditional plants, allowing you to showcase your personal style and creativity.
What can I use instead of rocks in a planter?
If you’re looking for alternative materials, you can consider using recycled glass or marbles in your planter. These not only provide a decorative touch but also retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Additionally, using seashells or colorful pebbles can add an aesthetically pleasing element to your planter while still aiding in drainage.
Should I put rocks in the bottom of my planter?
Putting rocks in the bottom of your planter might seem like a good idea, but it can actually hinder drainage and harm your plants. The presence of rocks creates a perched water table, where water accumulates at the top layer of soil above the rocks. This can lead to oversaturated soil and hinder the roots’ ability to breathe and absorb nutrients properly. To ensure optimal drainage and healthier plants, it is best to avoid putting rocks in the bottom of your planter and focus on other practices such as using well-draining soil and providing proper water management.