Are you in the looking for container garden ideas for the Philadelphia area? Here are some creative ideas on how to tackle what could seem like a daunting task. All of the seasons have their own challenges when you pick material for the planters. In early spring and fall you have to think about using plants that don’t mind a frost or two, since the weather is changing. In summer, you have to think about not over-stuffing a container since all of the plants will need room to grow. And in winter you have to pick things that will last through the winter and hopefully give you interest until spring. With these things in mind, here are some suggestions for container garden ideas for the Philadelphia area.
Spring & Fall Containers: For these containers, I would clean out all of the dirt from the previous season and fill with fresh potting soil. It’s always good for the plants to have the soil changed out so they can get all the nutrients that they need. Using last year’s soil lessens the new plants ability to thrive, since many of the nutrients have already been absorbed. Pick plants that can handle a frost or two. This is why pansies are so popular for spring and fall. They can freeze almost solid and still come back just fine when they thaw out. Tulips and Daffodils also work in the spring for container garden ideas for the Philadelphia area, while mums are great for fall. In our area we often get what seems like cold or hot days out of nowhere in spring and fall and these hardy plants will survive regardless.
Summer: Remove about half of the dirt from the container and fill with fresh potting soil. Again, this will give the plants nutrients they need to thrive. You can also add a granular slow release fertilizer when you are done planting to help jump start the plants. All plants will grow, so remember when picking out plants for container garden ideas for the Philadelphia area not to over crowd your planter, unless you don’t mind some maintenance. We like to add some perennials since generally perennials don’t take off in size until the second year, so they do well in containers for a season. In our area it can get very hot and humid in the summer. Keep that in mind when picking plants. Your pansies from the fall won’t be happy, but something like a dahlia will thrive.
Winter: Winter may seem dismal with little hope for a lush container, but have no fear; this is when you can really break out your flower arranging skills. Cut greens, berries, and interesting seeds & pods can really create an exciting mix. First, make sure that you have containers that last outside during the winter. Some may break apart from the freeze-thaw that happens in our area. Cast iron urns, vase shaped containers (that allow the soil to move up, not out) and containers that can be kept dry are the best to work with. Remove ½ of the soil from the container and add in a layer of crushed stones. This will keep the stems in place during the winter. Use cut greens, berries, and pinecones on stems make a wonderful winter arrangement. Add greens first, and then work in the berries and cones in a triangular pattern for the best visual effect. You can also use natural branching from deciduous trees to give extra height and texture to your container garden ideas for the Philadelphia area.
Want more ideas? Check out our other blog on creative outdoor planters, with specific planter “recipes”.
