Question
I live in Florida and am looking for types or plants and trees that can be placed and grown in containers. They need to stay somewhat small as we have a screened in pool. Can you give me some ideas or direction of where to look at locating the proper types of trees and plants and maybe even an idea of where to look for pools that are already done. I don't know one plant from the other so I desperately need some advise.
Thanks for your time

Jim

Answer
Jim,
First of all,you can grow just about anything year round in Florida,lucky you.Make sure before purchasing your new plants that they will not effect your quality of water in your pool.Don't plant anything that overhangs the pool like trees planted too closely to the pool will cause an overhang form the branches and leaves will inevitably fall in it,unless you have a pool cover for the fall months.I like big planters sitting around seated areas by the pool and if there is enough yard area surrounding the pool I think tall ornamental grasses and some dwarf or slow growing evergreen shrubs or groundcovers,Sega palms are a must for any pool. They look wonderfulin huhe pots placed stategically around the pool area for the tropical look.Cannas create that look as well and they have beautiful blooms of bright yellows,reds and orange and even when they aren't in b;oom,the big leaves give them a tropical air.
Here are some great places to shop or just browse the internet for the type of plants you want:
www.blackjungle.com
www.pctgardens.com
www.tamstrees.com
www.hawaiin-ytopical-flowers
www.flowerfarmstogo.com
Shady Oaks Gardens
Bluestone Perennials
Actually the best place to look is in your own local nurseries.They have plants that grow best in your area,because through trial and error,they only stock plants that are grown there successfully.

Have fun lounging by your pool.Lucky!