Working with the Space You Have

Working with the Space You Have

Take a good look at the space you have. Is it conducive to large
round planters? What about the long rectangular flower boxes? What
look are you trying to achieve? If you can answer these questions,
then you will be well on your way to a lively little garden area.
For odd spaces such as balconies and funny-shaped patios, you may
have to incorporate several different types of planters.

Get your tape measure out to note down the available space you have
to work with. Sketch out the approximate floor plan with the
appropriate measurements. Then, you will want to visit your local
garden center or nursery to check into the different sized
containers that could work for your space.

Choosing your plants

Do you have some favorite flowers, ornamental grasses or even herbs
you are interested in? If cooking is a hobby, you might consider
planting a few herbs in some of the containers. Rosemary, sage,
mint, basil and chives are fairly easy to grow in most any
environment and with containers, you are controlling that
environment.

You can start flowers from seed in your containers or indulge in
seasonal annual flowers as well. The drawback to annuals is that
they will eventually die out and you will have to pull them up and
replace them with something else. Perennials are another option and
will last longer. Not only that, they will also re-flower for
several years if properly taken care of. To ensure blooms
throughout most of the year, you might consider planting flower
bulbs which will bloom at a certain time each year and balance
those with perennial flowers and plants.

The Containers

One of the most attractive containers are those aged-looking whisky
barrels. Of course, there are a wide selection of terra cotta and
clay pots in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors. Plastic is an
option as is concrete planters. Your available space will dictate
what containers you will have. If you like a bit of funkiness, use
odd items for your planters like an old cowboy boot, a discarded
metal bucket or even a washtub. You are only limited by your space
and your creativity.