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Tubs and planters
Tubs, planters and hanging baskets can be used to grow a variety of climbers and small shrubs, perennials, annual plants and vegetables. You can even grow a small lawn, wild flower meadow or arable flowers in a container!
- Arrange tubs of different shapes, heights and sizes in groups and use plants of varying growth characteristics. This retains humidity and mimics the variation in height and structure found in the wild.
- Large tubs can support a small standard shrub or tree. There are many varieties available that have been grafted onto dwarf rootstocks. These may be under planted with a variety of other lower shrubs or herbaceous plants and annuals. This also helps reduce moisture loss.
- Climbers are easy to grow in tubs, as they take up minimal space and can be grown against a wall or trained up and over a balcony railing. They can act as a windshield and reduce the drying effect on the other plants in the tubs, as well as providing shelter. Their beautiful flowers provide colour and scent.
- Maximise the benefit of your plants by growing varieties attractive to insects and some fruiting shrubs or small trees. Try to include at least one or two native varieties. By careful planning, it may be possible to have something in flower for most of the year. Always use peat free composts - there are many brands on the market.
- Containers are not just restricted to growing shrubs and flowering plants. You may like to consider growing vegetables and salads individually in tubs, or mixed with the other plants you are growing.
- Many attractive water features have been designed around one or two tubs or containers, or even an old bath or sink! Remember to include a sloping edge for somewhere safe for birds to drink or bathe. A modest-sized water feature can attract damselflies and other water insects. Click on the link to the right to find out how.
- Features normally associated with larger gardens that you may like to try with planters are lawns, flower meadows, arable plants or deadwood. Click on the links to the right for ideas.
Special care for container grown plants
- There is no natural supply of nutrients, so they need a small application of fertiliser once or twice a year. If you have room for a small compost bin, homemade compost will help. Compost can be used as mulch to retain soil moisture and reduce the amount of artificial fertiliser needed.
- Containers need regular watering. If you have room, you could set up a water butt, or use waste household water from washing. You could try to use drought resistant varieties, particularly if your terrace is south facing.
Last modified: 16 October 2007