By Dan Johnson| March 2006
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| Click photos to enlarge. | |
Introduction
Gardening in containers can have a big impact and add a sophisticated, artsy feel to an otherwise average landscape. Even simple additions can create complexity and excitement in the garden.
The possibilities are vast. Most containers are portable enough that you can easily change the scene to suit an occasion, or divert the focus when part of the garden is past its prime. Plantings can change each year, creating different moods and combinations without re-landscaping the entire garden.
Container gardens can add height and dimension to any garden, and create an impact where there was only empty space. Consider the view from indoors as well. A lushly planted urn or bowl framed in your favorite window can bring the garden indoors and create a feeling of connection with the garden. If you aren’t content with your container garden, changing or relocating is easy.
With that in mind, consider your passions next and look at the style of your garden. In your landscape, are you a collector of many small plants, or do you lean towards simple, big and bold? That may be your preference in your containers as well, but before you get started, whichever one describes you, consider doing the opposite in your containers. This is an opportunity to try something new.
Nothing will add more energy to your garden than placing an element of contrast among the “sameness” that can exist. Be daring and create a new layer in your garden. This is a chance to branch out and experiment.
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