There are many advantages to growing plants in containers not least of which is that the pots can be a design element in their own right. Containers are made from a variety of materials and it is important to appreciate the characteristics that each will have on the growing environment provided for your plants.
Wonderful pot plants for small spaces
Gardenia ‘Radicans’
This lovely little gardenia is a true dwarf type that will bring a beautiful perfume to balconies and courtyards
Kangaroo paw ‘Bush Pearl’ (Anigozanthos hybrid)
Bush Pearl (Anigozanthos)
If you want to try something a little bit different this bright pink native plant will flower throughout the year given a position in full sun. Trim off the old flowers as they die to keep new ones coming.
Camellia sasanqua
Ideal for positions that do not get blazing sun all day this is the hardiest of the camellias and will provide screening as well as flowers throughout autumn and early winter.
Succulents
These drought tolerant plants need an absolute minimal amount of care and provide texture and intriguing foliage for container gardens as well as the bonus of colourful flowers at a variety of times depending on the species. The best succulents for containers include Crassula, Kalanchoe and Sempervivum.
For best results with container plantings always use a potting mix that conforms to the premium grade of the Australian Standard. It is also a good idea to sprinkle a handful of complete slow release fertiliser around the top of the pot at the beginning of spring.
Camellia (Sasanqua)
Caring for container plants
It is very important to try and ensure that container plants receive an even supply of moisture through the summer period. The use of water saving gels is a useful tool. These gels swell to many times their original size when soaked in water, which acts as a reservoir for the plant. It is best to incorporate it at the time of potting your plant but it can also be drilled into the mix for established pots. Wetting agents are also very useful, particularly if you have pots that have dried out severely. These products ensure that water flows evenly through the potting mix rather than channelling down specific pathways that prevent the whole root ball being evenly moistened.
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