My neighbor John found himself face down on the front porch, unable to get up. While lying waiting for help, his busy mind came up with a design for a porch railing which curved inward at the edges, leaving two perfect corners open and suitable for flower pots. John was never one to panic, or waste time.
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| Note to self: remove hanger |
Why hide the pots behind the rail where only the home's occupants could admire the blooms? John's design called for open corners and an inverted ornamental rail. His spouse was a bit sceptical of the design, but it grew on her. Yesterday, while whizzing past, two bright bunches of hot pink impatiens popping out of those very pots caught my eye.
John's bride favors bold colors to accomodate her compromised vision.
No matter the space, no matter the abode, everyone has room for a pot or two. Like a bright scarf, a pot of flowers gives your home a bit of unique style, and a punch of color, even if the outdoor space is a balcony.
A fabulous container garden can be pulled together in just a few minutes.
Spoiler alert--here's a gardener's "secret" tip. The fullest and easiest pots originate as hanging planters. Also the best deals. Near closing time at Eastern Market, or at the local market stand, full blooming hanging planters sell for as little as five or six dolllars. It's far less expensive and quicker than filling the pot with individual plants. Hanging planters are usually more mature than lone plants, providing instant gratification in a limited growing season (and budget.) They're a sure bet.
Some fabulous urns are made of lightweight molded plastic or fiberglass, and easily pass for the real thing. Save your back and phase out those heavy concrete containers. Plastic's far easier to clean and store. And it lasts. Forever.
To keep it light, use less soil and recycle the planter pot by inverting it in the bottom of the urn. Tuck plastic grocery bags in the gaps and line the upper interior with compost or mulch, leaving a cavity in which to pop in the hanging plant. Pop it in, and fill the gap with potting mix using a soil scoop. Light, fast and lovely.
Spit spot, you've got yourself a garden in a pot.
Grab a cuppa tea, sit back and admire your handiwork.
More Articles of Interest:
Winter Porch Pots -- Greenery Containers
How to Transplant Plants -- Create a Memory Garden
Gardeners of the Court -- The Cycle of Life in the Garden
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