June is upon us, and it's the perfect time to jazz up your outdoor living spaces with some vibrant container gardens. Whether you have a sprawling backyard or a cozy little balcony, these three plant container recipes will add a burst of life and color to your outdoor area.
1. The Sun-Lover’s Delight: For those spots bathed in sunshine, this container recipe will thrive and instantly add some colour. Start with a medium-sized pot that is brightly coloured or white for a major contrasting impact. At the heart of the pot plant a Geranium. Its bold blooms in reds, pinks, or whites will be your showstopper. Surround it with sweet alyssum; their tiny white flowers not only add a delicate contrast but also a delightful honey scent. To finish, tuck in some trailing verbena on the edges. Its cascading blooms will drape over your container's edge, creating a lush, overflowing effect. This trio loves the sun and will bloom profusely with regular watering and a bit of fertilizer love.
2. The Shade Retreat: Not all of us have the luxury of sun-drenched spaces - but not to worry, there are lots of plant combinations for shade! Grab a large, deep container to give your plants plenty of room to flourish. Start by placing a Hosta in the center; with its lush, leafy greens and occasional blooms, it’s a perfect shade star. Next, add in Heuchera, known for its vibrant foliage in shades of ruby red, peach, and bronze. Their mounded habit will fill in the gaps beautifully. Finally, add some English ivy at the edges. We always recommend keeping this plant in a pot to keep it well contained as it can spread easily. It’ll trail down your pot gracefully, adding depth and interest. This combo prefers a cool, shady spot where they can stay moist without getting soggy.
3. The Pollinator’s Paradise: Want to help out the bees and their friends while also crafting a stunning visual display? This pollinator-friendly recipe is both beautiful and beneficial. Choose a large container
to give your plants plenty of space. Start with a Bee Balm, which is irresistible to bees and butterflies alike. Its tubular flowers in red, pink, or purple are not only a feast for the eyes but also for wildlife. Pair it with a Lavender, whose soothing scent will make your garden a fragrant oasis. Edge the container with some creeping thyme; its tiny flowers are a hit with pollinators, and it adds a lovely texture to the arrangement. This combination loves full sun and regular watering, and it’ll pay you back by becoming a hotspot for delightful garden visitors.
With these three plant container recipes, your garden will be a vibrant, thriving testament to your love for gardening. Each offers something unique – a burst of color, a serene green corner, or a buzzing wildlife hub.
Find this article and more in the June issue of the Cowichan Valley Voice.
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