How to Plant in Large Planters

Large planters can transform any outdoor space with their vibrant colors and textures But planting in a large container comes with its own set of considerations. Follow these tips for successfully filling your big pots with gorgeous plants.

Choose the Right Planter

The first step is selecting a planter that can withstand the elements.

• For year-round use, choose planters made of durable materials like concrete, cast iron, or heavy-duty plastic rated for outdoor use. These can withstand cold winters without cracking

• Make sure the planter has drainage holes. Drill extra holes in plastic pots if needed. Proper drainage prevents waterlogging.

• Match the planter style to your home’s architecture and color scheme for a cohesive look. A modern pot looks out of place on a Craftsman porch.

• Big pots must be heavy to stay put in windy conditions. Built-in weight or filling the base with gravel helps keep them grounded.

• Self-watering and self-fertilizing planters take the work out of maintaining plants. Look for these features if convenience is key.

• Wheeled casters allow you to move large pots around to capture optimal sunlight. Just make sure to lock the wheels in place where you want it situated.

• For balconies or rooftops, lightweight foam or plastic bottles in the bottom reduce total weight bearing on the structure.

Provide Proper Soil Mix and Drainage

The right soil ensures your plants get proper nutrients and moisture.

• Use a high-quality commercial potting mix, not garden soil which compacts. The mix should contain fertilizer and water-absorbing polymers.

• Add perlite or gravel to improve drainage and aerate the soil.

• Fill pots 2/3 full with soil mix to leave room for water to accumulate and drain.

• Cover drainage holes with screen or gravel to prevent soil from washing out.

• Mix in slow-release fertilizer at planting time for a steady nutrient supply.

• For large trees and shrubs, amend soil with compost to boost nutrients.

Select Plants Carefully

Not all plants thrive in containers, so choose varieties wisely.

• Opt for compact varieties that won’t outgrow the planter space. Large-growing plants need frequent pruning.

• Look for drought-tolerant plants suited for the drying effects of pots. Succulents and sedums are great choices.

• Combine plants with different heights, growth habits, and bloom times for stunning contrast.

• Annuals deliver quick, seasonal color. Pair them with perennials or shrubs for multi-season interest.

• Match sun-loving plants with a sunny spot and shade lovers with filtered light. Most veggies need full sun.

• Talk to your local nursery about plants suitable for large planters in your hardiness zone.

Follow Proper Planting Techniques

Use these planting tips to get plants off on the right foot:

• Check pot dimensions to determine how many plants you can fit. Allow enough space between plants.

• Place the tallest plant in the center surrounded by plants of gradually decreasing heights.

• Remove root-bound plants from nursery pots, loosen roots, and bury a bit deeper in your pot.

• Water deeply after planting and let excess drain fully. The pot should feel lightweight when properly watered.

• Add mulch on top of soil to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Two inches is ideal.

• Insert cages and stakes for vining crops like tomatoes at planting time. Waiting can disturb roots.

• Pinch back leggy annuals and perennials right after planting for bushier, compact growth.

Provide Ongoing Care

Big pots need more frequent care and maintenance:

• Check soil moisture daily during hot, dry weather. Water thoroughly as the top few inches of soil become dry.

• Apply a dilute liquid fertilizer monthly during the growing season for continual feeding.

• Prune back wayward growth to keep plants tidy and within bounds. Pinch off spent blooms regularly.

• Turn pots periodically and prune back the side facing away from light to maintain even growth.

• Replenish depleted mulch mid-season to retain moisture and block weeds.

• Move sun-lovers into dappled shade if scorched and shade plants into sun if leggy.

• Trim roots and repot root-bound plants into a larger container. Otherwise, replace spent plants seasonally.

• Bring delicate plants indoors before the first fall frost. Store empty pots protected from harsh weather.

With smart plant choices suited to containers and proper care, your large planters will become stunning focal points brimming with flowers, foliage, and edibles! Paying attention to these tips as you select, plant, and tend to your pots will lead to beautiful, bountiful planter gardens you can enjoy for years.

For the bottom of a large planter, you can use a combination of drainage materials and lightweight fillers to reduce the amount of potting soil needed and improve drainage.