When you have a swimming pool it’s only natural that it will be the focal point of your backyard. The landscaping around the pool and outdoor living space adds to the overall beauty and aesthetics of the entire outdoor experience and that’s where landscaping with potted plants comes into play.
Potted plants add to poolside ambiance, and container gardening adds a unique flair to the space. Part of the beauty and benefit of potted plants is you can move them from location to location to change up the look. You can also plant a variety of plants and colors, trees and shrubs or even flowering vegetable plants to allow you access to blooming beauty all season long. Potted plants also eliminate the worry of planting trees whose roots may damage your pool plumbing.
When you have made the commitment to have potted plants you will need to care for them, weed them and water them to keep them healthy and blooming. Depending on the weather, there just may not be enough rain to keep them properly watered. Here are three potted plant tips:
- Knowing when to water. Don’t overwater or under-water. Trust your instincts when it comes to watering. Test the soil to see if it appears dry or wet and water as needed. You can even pick up the pot to see how heavy it feels – heavy equals wet. Make note of the type of plants you are growing and either read the seed packet or ask a greenhouse associate how often and how much to water.
- Where to water. Don’t soak the plant to the extent that the water erodes from the roots. Consider a “spray” bath for the plants and gently wet the soil and clean the leaves. Water in the morning.
- Drainage is important. Plants need a way for excess water to drain – either when you’re watering or when it rains. A pot with a hole in the bottom is ideal. You will want to place small stones in the bottom of the post as well to help with drainage. If roots come out the bottom of the planter, it’s time to repot.
If you over-water the plants, there will be standing water beneath the pot. The roots will get brown and the soil will smell. If the leaves turn brown or yellow or fall off, chances are it’s from overwatering.
Under-watering can be determined if you see that the plant is withering, and no new leaves are forming. If the leaves are curled and brown, it’s time to water. If the dirt in the pot is dry and crumbling, you are likely under-watering. You may be able to step up the watering game and save the plants, but do so slowly as you don’t want to saturate it.
