Perennials in a Pot

Do you hit the garden season at the beginning of every season to purchase annuals for all of your pots?  You can save money by investing in more expensive perennials once and enjoy the benefits of their return year after year. 

Not only is the decision to plant perennial gardens more economical, but there are more selections to choose from in terms of color, size and sun requirements. One thing to remember when planting perennials in a container is that you need to use larger containers.  This will ensure your perennials have room to grow and they will also be most likely to return each year when planted in large containers.  You also want to be certain your containers have drainage holes.

We've selected some of our favorite container garden perennials (recommended for over-wintering) and hopefully we can inspire you to plant perennials the next time you create a new container garden.    

Hosta is a perfect choice for a perennial container.  They are bright, easy and will almost certainly return each year.  Planted in a very large pot will mean they will make a bigger, bolder statement each year.

Scabiosa or Pincushion Flower is a great flowering choice for container gardens and combines well with other plants.  It comes in a variety of colors ranging from pink to blue to purple to red.  The bonus is its long bloom season.

Campanula or Bellflower.  It flowers in shades of blue, purple and pink, and white varieties are also available.  Because it can reach a height of 36 inches, it's a great way to add height to a container garden.  

Echinacea or Coneflower.  This one is a favorite perennial in the ground, but it's just as splendid in a container.  There's more available than the well known Purple Coneflower.  Mix it up assorted varieties for a real stunner.

Dianthus or Pinks are a lovely addition to a mixed perennial container or as a stand alone.  They are pretty and welcoming.

These are just a few of our favorites.  The possibilities are endless.  Next time you plant a container, skip the annuals and move toward the perennials.