Plant-filled containers are a must for roof gardens and balconies. They are very versatile, allowing you to clothe a wall in color or transform an area of the garden.
Containers can lead the eye down a pathway, highlight a paved sitting area, to create a welcoming doorway or line a row of steps. Hanging baskets and window boxes add color and greenery at a higher level. By grouping different sizes of containers you can create a 'bed' of color in any area or, conversely, you can use a beautifully shaped container-grown shrub or tree to form a focal point. By under-planting a container-grown tree or shrub you can acid a splash of temporary color when needed.
Plants in smaller pots can be moved about. Tender plants grown in pots can be transferred to a more sheltered spot in colder weather. Pot-grown annuals can be partially immersed in a flower bed when added color is required, then easily removed and transferred elsewhere.
Plastic and fiberglass containers are cheap and come in a wide range of shapes and sizes. They arc lighter than most of the alternatives and therefore ideal for roof gardens and balconies. Fiberglass, often made to imitate lead, is the stronger and more durable of the two. With careful planting a plastic container can almost disappear behind the contents, or you can use paint to antique or decorate the outside. Check before buying that a plastic container is suitable for use outdoors.
Terracotta pots conic in a range of shapes and sizes, from plain clay pots to those with ornate raised patterns, as well as urns with handles and those with side pockets for planting. Earth or compost in terracotta dries out quickly in hot weather so cheek plants regularly. Ensure the terracotta is frost-proof as it can flake or crack in freezing weather. In winter do not use water-retaining saucers as the water may freeze and crack the pot_
Wooden tubs, half-barrels, and troughs can look rustic or classic depending on the shape and finish. Timber will rot but if treated with paint or a plant-friendly preservative its life can be extended. Lining a wooden container with plastic will also lengthen its life.
Large baskets have become popular because they make unusual and reasonably priced containers. Prolong a basket's short life by oiling it well before planting. Cover the bottom of the basket with cut- down plastic plant-pot bases to keep the soil off the basketware and line it with plastic in which drainage holes have been made.
Glazed pots in bright colors are easily available: Not all are frost-proof, so check when buying. Choose a color to complement the intended contents.
Concrete is a cheaper alternative to reconstituted stone. To age a new exterior spread it with yoghurt to encourage algae to grow.
Window boxes conic in all the materials mentioned above and look most effective when plants cascade over the sides and conceal the container. Boxes filled with compost are very heavy and need to be securely fixed in position.
Many holders can be transformed into plant containers. They need to be deep enough. and should have a base that can take drainage holes. Suitable plant containers arc chimney pots, clay land drains, buckets, paint pots with all paint removed, and wheelbarrows.
Hanging baskets and wall troughs may be made of plastic-coated or plain wire, of iron, basketwork or solid plastic. Liners are available in many types of materials. Baskets look best when young plants are inserted in the sides as well as the top so that the plants grow to form a flowering ball.
