Container gardening is for everyone, whether you have a small balcony or extensive landscape. Large pots, small pots – they all add to any homes’ outdoor decor.

Container gardens do many things in the landscape:

• Create focal points
• Add a colorful welcome at the entrance to a home
• Create temporary interest in an area that’s past its prime or hasn’t reached it yet
• Grow plants that are not hardy so they can be moved outdoors or to a protected area during winter months

When planning a container or buying one already created, determine first where it will go and how it will be seen. Following are some guidelines:

• Pots viewed from one side should have larger plants in the back
• Pots viewed from all sides should have taller plants in the center
• Vary leaf shapes, color and size for textural contrast and interest
• Make sure all the foliage works together; not all plants may bloom at the same time
• When using multiple containers, have some unifying features. Use similar pots, repeat the types of plants, or have a related color scheme

With spring upon us, revitalizing container gardens is a great way to welcome the season!