The method I use when arranging garden container has been around a long time.
Have you heard of the thriller, filler, and spiller method of arranging garden containers?
Basically, you are going to pick out three types of plants for your container, following this method.
THRILLER-
The thriller plant will likely be something tall or with a unique shape or texture. It could even be something in a fun color.
FILLER-
This is going to be something that will fill in any gaps and hide the soil.
SPILLER-
The spiller is going to be a cascading plant that will hang over the sides of your planter.
Here is how I used this method to arrange my new garden container on our deck.
STEP 1-
This is the exact planter I bought in the medium size, black. {30x10x38}
It comes with a shelf and drainage holes. The shelf allows you to leave the bottom 2/3 empty, so you are only filling the top portion with dirt.
Fill your planter 3/4 of the way with good potting soil.
I loved the sleek lines of it and the shape, and how it doesn’t take up too much room.
Pottery Barn also sells these planters here.
I used 2.5 bags of potting soil. I prefer the miracle grow potting soil because it comes with slow release fertilizer in it.
It feeds your plants up to 6 months and you will be shocked how big and beautiful your plants will grow!
STEP 2-
Add your thriller plant!
I chose catmint for it’s color and light fragrance.It is a perennial which likes to live in full sun which our deck gets!
STEP 3-
I like to add in my spiller plant at this point.
I will usually place one or two in the corners of the planter and then in this case the front, as the backside backs up to the outdoor sectional.
For this I chose glechoma hederacea, which is in the ivy family.
STEP 4-
Add in your filler plant. For this I chose white impatiens.
Add to any empty spots to cover the soil.
I liked the color and their delicate shape. These are annuals, so they will only grow for one season.
Water and watch grow!
I hope you got some great tips and found this helpful on how to arrange your garden containers!
Be sure to check out my other favorite garden containers right here.
And my most popular hack to date, this Pottery Barn dupe planter!
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Annie Diamond says
Melaine, I had no idea there was a formula like this, but clearly, it works! Your planters are gorgeous!
Melaine Thompson says
Thank you Annie!
Jackie says
What beautiful planters! I love the height and privacy they add!
Melaine Thompson says
Thank you! I thought the shape of the planters was so unique!
Ashley says
Love those planters and your tips!
Melaine Thompson says
Thank you Ashley!
Laura says
Love this method for planting because it’s easy and the flower planters always look amazing – just like yours!
Janine says
I love how beautiful your planter turned out!
Melaine Thompson says
Thank you so much Janine!