The pot goes on
The Pot that Goes on and on
In the October 2013 issue of the magazine, we featured a pot within a pot, planted up with an assortment of plants. The selfsame pots are still looking splendid, with the long-term plants flourishing and the seasonal flowering plants having been replaced. The lesson to be learnt here is that a combination of lasting foundation plants and quick colour can be maintained to go on and on providing a bright display. Only the colourful plants need to be replaced as and when necessary.
What to Plant
The original planting featured Phormium ‘Yellow Wave’ as the central focal point with Abelia x Grandiflora ‘Kaleidoscope’ in the foreground. These are the two permanent plants in the grouping and they are still the prominent feature many months later.
Both are evergreen and are grown primarily for their variegated foliage and contrasting texture, remaining constant all year round. The colourful Petunias, Dianthus, Osteospermums and Argyranthemums that have finished flowering have been replaced with scarlet Pelargonium Peltatum and white Lobularia Maritima ‘Snow Prince’. The lovely Verbena ‘Aztec Violet Wink’ is still prolific in the background.
How to Care for the Potted Plants
• Watering combined with good drainage is always the most important aspect of successful container gardening. Regular watering during hot, dry weather conditions is vital. Never allow the plants to stress through lack of water.
• Apply water-soluble plant food to the entire pot (foliage and soil) every 10-14 days. Use chemical or organic fertilisers of your choice provided that they are high in potassium (K).
• Prune back any plant that grows rapidly and suppresses the other plants in the combination.
• Deadhead flowering plants as and when necessary. Remove dry or dead leaves as well.
• The entire pot combination will need a total replant every 2-3 years.