Let Containers Remain at www.japanese-home-gardens.com

It is important to decide whether to plant for a year-round display or to let containers remain the containers remain empty during the winter. Remember that many plants which would behardy enough in the ground may succumb to the cold when their roots are raised up in a container open to frosts. Frozen, waterlogged soil can also burst containers as it expands. Conversely, containers in sun can get very hot in summer and your choice of plants needs to be governed by this fact: it is all too easy to bake the roots of plants. With these practical points in mind, you are free to choose from the range of container gardening styles. Formal courtyards can be graced with potted bays, cypress, camellias or bamboos. In addition, some especially beautiful pots may look best

In many respects, small containers are more difficult to place. Several small containers scattered about do not necessarily make a bold impact and can look fussy. Furthermore, a group of small containers can also be more difficult to maintain. However, they do come into their own when placed around the edges of larger containers to soften their outlines.

Try to create different levels when you group containers and arrange them in a tiered manner. Not only is this visually more exciting than a uniform row of pots, but each planting will be displayed to best effect and create a terrace-like cascade of foliage. Do not mix too many different types of containers in one group. Either choose containers of a similar style, or stick to one type of material, such as terracotta.