What to Fill Large Outdoor Planters With

Transforming your outdoor space into a lush, inviting oasis often starts with the right choice of plants and the containers they live in. Large outdoor planters not only add a touch of elegance but also provide ample space for your greenery to flourish. However, deciding what to fill these large outdoor planters with can be a daunting task. This guide will help you make informed decisions, ensuring your planters become the stunning centerpieces of your outdoor space.

First, consider the location and size of your planters. The amount of sunlight they receive and their dimensions will significantly influence your plant choices. Additionally, think about the overall aesthetic you're aiming for - whether it's a tropical paradise, a modern minimalist look, or a classic English garden.

Evergreen Plants for Year-Round Beauty

Evergreen plants are an excellent choice for large outdoor planters, providing color and texture throughout the year. They are particularly useful in colder climates, where deciduous plants may lose their leaves during winter.

Evergreens come in various shapes and sizes, from tall, slender trees to compact shrubs and ground covers. Some popular evergreen options include:

• Boxwood - Known for its dense, glossy foliage, boxwood is perfect for creating structured hedges or topiaries.
• Hollies - These versatile plants offer a mix of evergreen foliage and colorful berries, providing interest throughout the seasons.
• Rhododendrons - With their large, leathery leaves and showy flowers, rhododendrons can add a touch of elegance to any outdoor space.

Creating Height and Structure

To add drama and depth to your planters, consider including tall, upright plants. These can be evergreens like Italian cypress or deciduous plants such as dogwood or birch trees.

When using trees in your planters, ensure they have enough space to grow and that their root systems won't outgrow the container. Also, keep in mind the eventual height and spread of the tree to avoid overcrowding or blocking sunlight from other plants.

Adding Color and Texture with Annuals and Perennials

Annuals and perennials can provide a burst of color and texture to your planters. Choose plants that complement each other in terms of color, height, and growth habit. Consider using the 'thriller, filler, spiller' method for a balanced, cohesive look:

• Thriller - Tall, eye-catching plants that add height and drama, such as cannas, black-eyed Susans, or ornamental grasses.
• Filler - Mid-sized plants that fill in space and provide color, like petunias, calibrachoa, or heuchera.
• Spiller - Trailing plants that cascade over the edges of the planter, such as sweet potato vine, lobelia, or creeping Jenny.

When selecting plants, consider their water, light, and soil requirements. Group plants with similar needs together to ensure they thrive in their new home.

Ornamental Grasses for Movement and Texture

Ornamental grasses are a fantastic addition to any planter, providing movement, texture, and sound as they sway in the breeze. They come in various sizes, colors, and textures, making them versatile choices for any outdoor space.

Some popular ornamental grasses include:

• Fountain Grass - Known for its cascading, feathery plumes, fountain grass adds a soft, romantic touch to any planter.
• Switchgrass - With its tall, upright habit and airy flowers, switchgrass provides a bold, architectural element to your outdoor space.
• Carex - These low-growing, grass-like plants are perfect for adding texture and contrast to your planter. They come in various colors, from gold to purple.

Creating a Focal Point with a Showstopper Plant

Every planter needs a star attraction - a plant that draws the eye and adds a wow factor. This could be a striking tree, a vibrant flowering plant, or an unusual succulent. Choose a plant that complements the other elements in your planter and enhances the overall aesthetic of your outdoor space.

For example, a planter filled with lush, green foliage plants might benefit from a focal point of a bold, colorful flower like a red banana plant or a striking bird-of-paradise. Conversely, a planter filled with vibrant flowers could use a tall, elegant tree like a Japanese maple to provide height and contrast.

Mixing Containers for Visual Interest

While large outdoor planters can make a significant impact on their own, consider mixing and matching different container shapes, sizes, and materials to create a dynamic, eye-catching display. Grouping containers together can also help to create a cohesive look and make your outdoor space feel more inviting.

For instance, a cluster of tall, narrow planters could be paired with a low, wide planter filled with trailing plants to create a sense of balance and harmony. Alternatively, a mix of wooden, metal, and terra cotta containers can add a touch of rustic charm or modern sophistication, depending on your preferred aesthetic.

Ultimately, the key to filling large outdoor planters is to choose plants that complement each other and enhance the overall look of your outdoor space. Don't be afraid to experiment with different plant combinations and container arrangements to create a unique, personalized look that reflects your style. With the right plants and containers, your outdoor space will become a lush, inviting oasis that you'll love spending time in.