Outdoor Year Round Potted Plants

For those who love to enjoy the beauty of plants all year round, growing potted plants outdoors is a great way to do so. With careful consideration of the climate, USDA hardiness zone, and plant selection, it is possible to create a thriving outdoor potted plant garden that will provide visual interest and joy throughout the seasons.

Selecting Plants for Outdoor Pots

When selecting plants for outdoor pots, it is important to consider the following factors:

* Climate: Choose plants that are well-suited to the climate of your area. * USDA Hardiness Zone: The USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map divides the United States into 11 zones based on average annual minimum temperatures. Select plants that are hardy to your zone or one or two zones colder. * Pot Size: The size of the pot will determine the size of the plant that you can grow. Consider the mature size of the plant when selecting a pot. * Drainage: Pots should have drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. * Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix that is appropriate for the type of plant you are growing.

Plants for Year Round Interest

With careful planning, it is possible to have outdoor potted plants that provide interest throughout the year. Here are some suggestions:

* Spring: Pansies, violas, daffodils, tulips, hyacinths * Summer: Geraniums, petunias, impatiens, begonias, lantana * Fall: Mums, asters, ornamental cabbage * Winter: Winter pansies, hellebores, colorful bark shrubs

Care and Maintenance

To ensure the success of your outdoor potted plants, it is important to provide proper care and maintenance:

* Watering: Water regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. * Fertilizing: Fertilize regularly according to the manufacturer's instructions. * Pruning: Remove dead or damaged foliage and prune as needed to maintain the desired shape and size. * Winter Protection: Protect tender plants from extreme cold by mulching around the base of the pot or moving them to a sheltered area.

Benefits of Outdoor Potted Plants

Growing outdoor potted plants offers several benefits:

* Year-Round Beauty: Potted plants provide visual interest and color throughout the year. * Versatility: Pots can be easily moved around to create different displays or to accommodate changing seasons. * Small Space Gardening: Potted plants are a great way to enjoy gardening even in small spaces like balconies or patios. * Variety: There is a wide variety of plants that can be grown in pots, allowing you to create unique and diverse displays.