Living in the Pacific Northwest, we’re all about embracing the outdoors. But what if your outdoor space is more like a “shoebox balcony” than sprawling garden? Fear not, fellow plant enthusiasts! Container gardening is your ticket to a thriving urban oasis. This month let’s explore space-saving hacks and plant picks perfect for July’s sunny skies.
Think Vertical!
Square footage shrinking? Go vertical! Cascading vines like Million Bells, Creeping Phlox, and Clematis soften railings and add a touch of whimsy. Tiered planters, hanging baskets overflowing with colorful petunias, or wall-mounted pockets bursting with herbs are all fantastic space-savers. For a DIY project, repurpose old rain gutters as vertical herb gardens – a splash of green and a nod to our beloved rainy season!
Pot Power:
Self-watering planters: These ingenious containers are a lifesaver for busy gardeners (or those who tend to forget to water). They use a built-in reservoir to keep your plants hydrated, perfect for those hot July days.
Thrillers, Fillers, and Spillers: This classic container planting technique creates stunning displays in a single pot. A tall “thriller” plant, like red cannas, grabs attention. Surround it with bushy “fillers” like begonias, and finish with trailing “spillers” like sweet potato vine for a cascading effect.
Plant Picks for July:
For the Foodie:
- Peppers: Bell peppers and chili peppers come in a variety of colors and heat levels, adding spice to your summer dishes. Choose dwarf varieties for containers.
- Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes are a must-have for any edible container garden. Look for “determinate” varieties that stop growing at a specific height, ideal for pots.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs are the ultimate balcony bounty. Basil, thyme, oregano, and rosemary thrive in containers and add a touch of Italian flair to your meals.
For the Flower Fanatic:
- Begonias: Who doesn’t love these gorgeous blooms? Begonia varieties like Solar or Big Begonias bring color and personality to even the smallest balconies.
- Dahlias: These dramatic blooms come in an astonishing array of colors and sizes. Choose “dinner plate” dahlias for a show-stopping display or smaller “pompom” varieties for a touch of whimsy.
- Calibrachoa: Nicknamed “million bells” for a reason, these cascading beauties come in a rainbow of colors and are low-maintenance superstars in containers.
Don’t forget the power of mulch! A layer of bark or pebbles around your plants helps retain moisture, keeps weeds at bay, and adds a polished touch to your container creations.
With a little creativity and these handy hacks, your Pacific Northwest balcony can be a blooming haven all summer long. Find your favorite pot at Al’s Garden & Home, throw in some sunshine-loving plants, and watch your tiny terrace transform into a personal garden paradise! Visit any of our four locations in Woodburn, Sherwood, Gresham, and Wilsonville where we can assist you in selecting the best plants, containers, and growing tip to ensure your successful planting.
