Designing the Perfect Planter: Thrill, Fill, and Spill with Style
Whether you're new to gardening or a seasoned pro, creating a visually appealing planter is a satisfying and creative endeavor. To ensure your planter bursts with color, texture, and vitality, follow the "Thriller, Filler, Spiller" rule and choose complementary colors. In this blog post, we'll guide you through the process of choosing the best plants for a 12 to 20-inch planter, accommodating 3-7 plants, and creating a harmonious color palette.
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The Thriller, Filler, Spiller Formula
Thriller: The thriller is the centerpiece of your planter, the star of the show that adds height and drama. For a 12 to 20-inch pot, consider using a tall, eye-catching plant like a spike (Dracaena), a vibrant grass, or even a small ornamental tree. This focal point sets the stage for the rest of your design.
Filler: Filler plants create a lush, full look in your planter. These are typically bushy or mounding plants that surround the thriller. Some great choices include petunias, marigolds, geraniums, or coleus. Their job is to fill in the gaps and add depth to your planter.
Spiller: Spiller plants are the ones that gracefully cascade over the sides of your pot, adding a trailing element that softens the edges and completes the overall look. Popular spillers include trailing petunias, sweet potato vine, and ivy.
Choosing Complementary Colors
Harmonizing colors in your planter can turn it into a work of art. Here are a few tips for selecting complementary colors:
Monochromatic Magic: Using various shades of a single color can create a serene, sophisticated look. For instance, mix different hues of purple, from lavender to deep violet.
Contrast and Drama: Pairing contrasting colors on the color wheel, like red and green or blue and orange, can make your planter pop with energy and excitement.
Analogous Harmony: Selecting colors that are adjacent on the color wheel, such as blue and purple or yellow and green, will result in a more subtle, harmonious effect.
Consider the Environment: Think about the location of your planter. Will it be in full sun or partial shade? Certain plants thrive better in different lighting conditions, so choose your color palette accordingly.
Additional Tips:
Ensure proper drainage in your planter to prevent root rot.
Regularly deadhead (remove spent flowers) and prune to maintain the shape and size of your plants.
Be mindful of the growth habits of the plants you choose, making sure they won't overcrowd each other as they mature.
In summary, creating a stunning planter is all about balance and aesthetics. By adhering to the Thriller, Filler, Spiller rule and thoughtfully selecting complementary colors, you can transform your 12 to 20-inch planter into a living masterpiece that adds charm and vibrancy to your outdoor space. Whether you're aiming for a harmonious blend or a bold contrast, your planter will undoubtedly be a conversation piece for your garden or patio. Happy planting!
