Container gardening is the perfect solution for adding colour and texture to patios, balconies, and smaller garden spaces. But when summer heat is in full swing, choosing the right plants is key to long-lasting beauty and low maintenance. Whether you’re new to gardening or refreshing your summer display, these are the 7 best plants for summer containers.
1. Petunias
Petunias are a classic for a reason. These annuals bloom continuously in sunny areas and come in almost every colour. They’re easy to grow and create full, trailing displays that look stunning in hanging baskets or large pots.
Care Tip: Deadhead regularly and fertilize every two weeks for more blooms.
2. Geraniums
Known for their bold colour and easy care, geraniums are ideal for hot, sunny spots. Their upright blooms pair beautifully with trailing plants or greenery.
Care Tip: Let the soil dry slightly between waterings and remove faded flowers to encourage new ones.
3. Calibrachoa (Million Bells)
These mini petunia look-alikes are tough, vibrant, and bloom non-stop. Calibrachoa trails nicely over the edge of containers and is available in a rainbow of shades.
Care Tip: Loves full sun and well-drained soil. Feed monthly for best performance.
4. Sweet Potato Vine
Not all colour has to come from flowers. Sweet potato vine offers lush, dramatic foliage in bright lime or deep purple. It’s a vigorous grower and a great spiller in mixed containers.
Care Tip: Trim back if it becomes too aggressive. Likes evenly moist soil.
5. Begonias
If you’re working with partial shade, begonias are a top pick. Their waxy leaves and bright blooms handle heat and humidity beautifully. Tuberous types are especially eye-catching.
Care Tip: Avoid overhead watering and keep soil consistently moist but not soggy.
6. Lantana
This sun-lover is incredibly drought-tolerant and adored by pollinators. Lantana blooms in clusters of warm colours that shift as the season progresses.
Care Tip: No need to deadhead, but regular trimming encourages bushier growth.
7. Lavender
For a fragrant, low-maintenance choice, try lavender. Its silvery foliage and soft purple blooms love full sun and look elegant in terra cotta pots.
Care Tip: Allow soil to dry out between watering. Prune after blooming to maintain shape.
Container Gardening Tips for Success
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Choose the Right Pot: Use containers with drainage holes to prevent root rot.
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Use Quality Potting Mix: Avoid garden soil; use lightweight potting mix designed for containers.
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Water Smart: Containers dry out faster—water in the morning and check daily.
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Fertilize Consistently: Use a balanced fertilizer every 2–3 weeks to keep blooms coming.
With the right mix of sun-loving and shade-tolerant picks, your summer containers can stay vibrant and thriving all season long. Visit us at the garden centre for the best locally-grown varieties and expert advice on creating the perfect potted garden.