Got a Small Space? Make a Container Garden!

If you don’t have a place in your yard that makes you sigh in happiness, you need one. From any view, this little shade garden sparks so much joy.

Making a little plant tableau is so fun and rewarding. This year I played with textures to create a small space that just keeps getting better and better as the unfettered wild leaf growth emerges. I’m just doing this with pots here so it would make the perfect template for a small space or apartment garden.

Plant stands, spires, and chalice-shaped planters create differing height levels and interest. Here are the must-have elements:

• Obelisk or spire with vine – this will climb and fill out. Put a spiller below. I planted star jasmine and nasturtium but depending on climate a clematis or mandevilla would be really pretty with creeping Charlie, creeping Jenny or ivy
• A couple tall plants. I have cacti because desert but mother in law tongue works here too
• A show stopper. Gorgeous color or blooms and put her right in the middle
• A few more small pots or statues to complete your scene

You can use the rule of 3 or just go crazy here as I have done, mostly because these plants won’t do well anyplace else in my garden due to shade requirements.

Select a mix of fun annuals and tried-and-true plants that can withstand your climate. You can swap out the annuals later for something else that will suit the next season.

I do have kind of a pot theme going here, but they don’t all coordinate and that’s okay. I’m probably never going to repot that cactus from the container that it was already planted in when it was given to me. I’ve selected other similar shaped pots to compliment it. An almost-but-not-quite look is okay.

I’m sure you’ve heard before to select a thriller, filler, and a spiller for big pots. I’m pretty heavy on the spiller here but what’s great is it’s going to hide my mismatched pots and plant stands here.

Just look at all the interesting textures here. I love how the plants will fill in and “hide” my air conditioner, and the plastic kiddie toys aren’t as noticeable in the background because the plants are so interesting.

This is my favorite spot to sit outside with a cup of coffee and greet the morning.

Can’t go wrong with classic elements here in my shade garden. I’m loving all the textures and fun colors of the season. Now it’s your turn to come up with a beautiful little peaceful haven of plants for yourself.