How to measure plant pots
Your typical plastic garden plant pot usually already has its measurements on its underside. This refers to the pot’s diameter. However, if you need to know the depth of the plant pot, take a tape measure, place it at the side of the pot, and pull it down. To measure garden planters, you’ll need to measure their length, width, and depth in the same manner.
What is a planter?
A planter is a decorative pot or large potting bed used for growing Companion Planting guide. Typically, a planter is larger than a plant pot as it is made to house multiple plants that can grow together or larger plants in general. If you’re looking for more of a statement of greenery and flowers in your garden and something instantly noticeable and decorative, you should opt for a garden planter.
How to arrange garden pots
Before we think aesthetically, we must think strategically. Which plants in your garden pots need the most sunlight, and therefore shouldn’t be tucked away in a corner or hidden behind outdoor furniture? Know which direction the sun hits your garden, and then plan accordingly.
Now, time to have a little bit of fun. Think of how you’d design your garden, and how you should therefore arrange your garden pots. Having large garden pots on a decking or patio, especially with tall plants in them, will look striking as a statement between outdoor furniture. Smaller garden pots, such as for herbs or small flowers like pansies, might look best clustered together to create a more lush, vibrant effect.
Flower, vegetable, and herb seeds often need the same conditions to grow, making them easy to group together for those who like a busy, growing garden. For top tips on which plants and vegetables get on best together, read our handy Companion Planting guide.
Can I use garden soil in my pots?
There’s a reason garden soil tends to sprout hardy, sturdy plants, and it is because it’s a relatively tough soil. As easy as it would be to use your garden soil in your outdoor plant pots, it’s not recommended you do. Potted plants are more sensitive than wild flowerbed plants and hedges and won’t respond well to the naturally mixed materials like clay and silt in your garden soil.
Even for outdoor potted plants, you should always use a potting soil to best support their growth. Potting soil is fortified with nutrients and better aerated because it’s not as dense, so it can help give you healthy potted flowers and plants. Using compost will also help give your outdoor plants the best start and help keep them healthy for longer.
