So, I was thinking about the next thing we need to start thinking about. How about containers? I don’t know about you, but I love using unique containers for my flower planting. Old tubs, wheelbarrows, buckets, old shoes, or maybe clay pots and concrete planters? I am a believer that you can plant almost anything in almost anything. So, when choosing your containers, annuals need at least 8 inches of space for their roots during the growing season. Take this into account when planting them in containers. Be choosy with container plants. If you want to put a tree or shrub in a a container, choose a type that grows slowly and stays small. For potted perennials, pick ones that also grow small and aren’t invasive. Whenever you’re mixing and matching different plant types in a container, make sure all of them have similar watering and sunlight needs. Things that are unique as planters really give a flower garden some character. Try something different for yourself. Try wooden barrels, oil drums, old water heaters split lengthwise, fruit boxes, watering spouts, tea kettles, and hanging baskets. Whatever you use, be sure to clean it well. If you’re feeling creative, give it a coat of paint. Check to see if it has drainage holes. If not, drill some. Pretty pots aren’t always practical. Double pot if you have a plant container that’s pretty to look at but not practical for actual potting. Start by filling the bottom of this decorative pot with several inches of gravel and charcoal. Then pot your plant in a plain clay pot. Make sure this pot is smaller than the decorative pot. Next, place the clay pot with it’s plant inside the decorative pot. Finish by filling in the space between the two pots with moss, straw, dried leaves, or another colorful filler. Another thing is you want to choose the right color to protect your plants. Paint pots white in hot temperatures to keep your plants’ roots cool. To warm them when it’s cooler, paint the pots black. Did you know that concrete, wood, and special insulated plastic pots resist frost damage? That is crucial if you plan to pot trees, shrubs, and perennials and leave them outside. Unfortunately, clay pots are not up to the task. They will crack when it freezes. Old pots also need cleaning. Before you put new plants in old pots, fill a tub with hot water and add one to two tablespoons of bleach for every gallon. Soak the containers in the tub overnight. This kills algae and bacteria and dissolves minerals before they can harm your new plants. Saturate clay pots before using. Make sure to soak clay pots in water for a few minutes before you plant in them. This will saturate the clay, so it won’t absorb water from the potting mix. So, the next time you get ready to start planting in your flower garden, look for something different and unique to plant in. It sure will make for a great conversation when someone comes to visit. Until next time remember to always live in bloom! Sent from my iPad