Now that the threat of frost has ended here in my neck of the woods, I’ve put together my first porch planting!
Nothing brings me more joy than adding planters to my porch that bring color and nature to my space.
I typically choose plants that benefit the flora and fauna but this planter was purely for looks. I found this crock on the side of the road in a pile of junk and I’ve been dying to add some greenery to it. It’s got a crack but it’s still good for planting!
I always recommend others use a planter with a drainage hole. I’ve experimented for over 10 years with what plants I can and can’t grow without drainage so I’ve found a happy medium and know the limits of what I can personally grow without drainage.
When it comes to planter design I always use the good ole spiller, thriller and filler recipe for my planters. This shade planter got:
•Thriller-obviously the Rex Begonia, Escargot
Look at the swirls on this painted begonia! I can’t get over this amazing leaf shape. The little red hairs of the new leaves shimmer and shine in the sun next to the iridescent hue of the green and dark maroon leaves.
Will grow 10-12 inches max. Loves humidity and shade.
•Spiller- Muehlenbeckia axillaris or Creeping Wire Vine.
A dainty wiry vine with lots of small green leaves. It’s not particularly fussy and does well in sun or shade. It’s going to creep and vine just like the name implies!
•Filler- Diamond Frost, euphorbia hybrid
Probably one of my top 3 favorite fillers to use due to its continuous blooms, airy form and drought tolerance.
The best part about this planter is I can actually transition these plants inside and continue to grow them as houseplants. Begonias struggle in my dry home and aren’t on my list of particularly easy plants but with the right care they can make it through the winter and I can bring this planting back out next summer!
