Container gardening is a convenient option for growing an abundance of plants and flowers in your yard without the hassle or intensive care of a traditional garden. You can combine flower pots with your garden for more dimension and versatility. Container gardens are also easy to move around to find optimal spots for plant growth, and they are less at risk of soil-borne diseases and pests.
And whether you're looking to expand the beauty of your yard, add some flower pots to your patio, or decorate a small outdoor space, container gardening is a hassle-free and enjoyable option. And while veggies, herbs, and greenery may seem like a no-brainer, you may be feeling stuck when it comes to the best flowers for container gardening.
Fortunately, this list of the 10 best flowers for containers is here to help!
Tips for Choosing the Best Flowers for Container Gardening
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Before you start choosing the flowers you'd like to plant in your container garden, there are a few key details to consider to ensure you've found the perfect florals.
The first thing is the size of the container you need to fill and how many plants you'll need. It's important to opt for flowers that will fill the space once they're fully grown. In the same token, you should also consider the sun exposure of the area you're going to put the planter and if the flowers will thrive or just barely survive.
If you're filling your planters with different flowers, consider the care they require. If they need different amounts of sun and water, you shouldn't plant them together. And finally, think about the color palette and aesthetic you're looking for and what flowers will best fulfill those goals.
10 of the Best Flowers for Container Gardening
1. Mums
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It's no secret that mums–in other words, chrysanthemums–are a top contender for many outdoor planters. They often bloom in the fall and can handle a little frost, making them the ideal option for keeping your garden colorful near the end of the season. They also prefer full sun and can grow quite large, making them ideal for a larger pot or container. Plus, they come in a wide variety of different colors to suit any garden space.
2. Dahlia
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Dahlias also come in an abundance of different colors and vary in size, making them ideal for all different planter sizes. They can also grow tall and prefer full sun, so it's best to put them in a sunny patch of your garden or yard. Plus, you can dig up the tubers and store them to replant again for the next growing season.
3. Gerber Daisy
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Gerber daisies are another flower that thrives in containers. Plus, they're available in different colors to suit your outdoor space. The colors are vivid and bright, making them an excellent addition to any area that could use a little life. They love warm weather and full sun and can grow quite tall, making them ideal for medium to large-sized pots.
4. Fuchsia
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Fuchsia plants are characterized by their long, drooping stems and deeply colored flowers. You'll find varieties of pink, blue, and purple featuring different tones and shades. Because of their shape, fuchsia plants are ideal for hanging planters and containers. They prefer a bit more shade than some of the other options on this list, so they're great for filling darker corners of your yard or garden.
5. Geranium
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Geraniums are one of the most popular choices for container gardens, especially since they come in so many different colors. From deep dark blues and purples to bright, luscious pinks and oranges, there's plenty to choose from. The green foliage is also beautiful, so they'll be stunning even when the flowers aren't blooming. They love the sun and can grow quite tall, making them ideal for larger planters.
6. Carnation
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A carnation is a crowd favorite in terms of flower bouquets, but did you know you can buy potted carnations? This way, your most-loved flowers will last even longer. They require full sun and can grow quite tall, so you should place them in larger planters. You can also mix and match them with other flowers.
7. Snapdragon
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Snapdragons have a unique look that will add a whimsical touch to any flower pot, whether you plant them alone or with other flowers. They feature tall spikes covered in blossoms and come in various colors. They prefer full sun, though they are frost tolerant and will grow 12-18 inches tall all season long.
8. Starflower
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Starflowers get their name from their shape: a star, of course! They come in a variety of colors, including bright blues and vibrant pinks. They require plenty of sun and heat, so you won't see them until the middle of the summer. But their green foliage is just as stunning to look at, and the payoff is worth the wait.
9. Petunia
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Petunias are fast growers and come in many colors, so your only requirement is to choose the best color for your space! They often cascade over the edge of pots, making them perfect for hanging planters, though some grow in height and become tall instead. They also come in different sizes, so it's important to check the details of the one you're purchasing to ensure it will thrive in the pot in which you plant it.
10. Winged Begonia
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Winged begonias are another option, with foliage just as beautiful as the blooms. The large green leaves and colorful flowers are durable and drought-resistant, making them ideal for a forgetful gardener. They can tolerate full sun and shade, so they'll thrive in any location in your backyard. The flowers also drop off as they age, so they're a very low-maintenance plant.
Time to Garden!
Container gardens are a convenient and beautiful option for adding plenty of color and florals to any outdoor space. From window planters to floor planters and everything in between, there are plenty of ways to decorate and style your yard, balcony, or patio. Now that you've got your flowers picked out, it's time to plant your container garden!
So, let us know, which of these flowers will you plant in your container garden?