Solve Garden Border Dilemmas with Planted Containers

Container gardens on patios and balconies are common. But have you considered placing planted pots directly into the garden border? Practical considerations: ensure access for watering/maintenance and that pots can drain. I tamp soil, add a paving stone (or gravel base for heavy pots), set the container, and lift slightly with pot feet for drainage and to prevent sinking.

Let's explore design dilemmas and how border containers solve them.

Dilemma 1: Small Pots Get Lost on a Patio

This 12-inch cobalt-blue pot lives large in a raised bed. Its plant colors echo the border—when orange daylilies finish, similarly colored coleus continues the scheme. Small-scale design bridges seasons.

Tip: Connect small pots to surroundings via color or plant selection.

Dilemma 2: Large Pots Overwhelm a Space

Oversized terra-cotta pots suit the home's architecture but could dominate. Low plantings around them create the effect of pots emerging from a larger garden, softening the paver-to-pot transition.

Tip: Keep plantings simple; match container style to architecture; let pots "emerge" from groundcovers or grasses.

Dilemma 3: Soil Isn't Ideal

Plants only thrive when soil matches their needs. Containers let you control soil in discrete areas—grow water-lovers in dry soil, xeric plants in clay.

Tip: Use custom potting mixes: lightweight cactus mix for drought-tolerant plants; seed-starting mix for succulents/lavender; ~20% organic matter for geraniums.

Dilemma 4: Ground Isn't Plantable

Tree roots, utility meters, and ports make in-ground planting tough. Containers can be moved and placed over roots (if weight allows).

Tip: Spread 1–2 inches of gravel for a stable base over roots.

Dilemma 5: A Gap in the Border

Plants die at inconvenient times—often before events. A planted container is a quick fix. Also bridges the gap while you decide on long-term plants.

Tip: Test new plants or colors.

Dilemma 6: You Want a Wild Statement—Sometimes

Containers are versatile: move or remove as tastes change without major renovation. Experiment with bold color schemes, plants, styles—go big this year, casual next. Who says conifers, hostas, and bananas don't mix?

Tip: Use lightweight pots for mobility; a PotLifter helps.

More: 9 Tips for Creating an Artful Container Garden