Mixed plantings are an easy way to add punches of color to your yard. But how do you create a winning combination?
If you're expecting a long, hot summer, try this water-wise, heat-tolerant fivesome in full sun:
Grass - Start by selecting a tall grass to give the mixture some height, and centering it in your pot.
Mexican Heather - Add texture by including this bushy, fern-like plant laced with dainty purple flowers in the container's background.
Cora Vinca - Turn up the color with this new variety of our ever-favorite Periwinkle. Disease-resistant Cora's large, eye-catching flowers and glossy, deep green foliage will have your planter turning heads well into fall. It comes in an array of show-stopping colors but we love it in Lavender.
Portuluca Grandiflora (Moss Rose) - Set sunny yellow Moss Rose near the front of the pot, beside the Lavender Vinca. Growing only four to six inches tall, this trailing annual has brilliant, rose-like blooms that build interest by spilling over the sides of your pot.
Marguerite Sweet Potato Vine - Complete the look with striking, chartreuse Sweet Potato Vine. Like Moss Rose, this low-growing, ornamental vine thrives in hot conditions and will drape 24" to 36" over your container's side.
Grouping these sun-loving, garden standouts will make your container a knock-out. We recommend doubling your pleasure by creating two pots. Then you can enjoy the arrangement through fall with very little effort. Just add a little water and deadhead the Moss Rose if you feel like it. You can find this quintet at one of our favorite plant stops: Lowe's Garden Centers.
Growing Zones: Varies but these are star performers in zones 7-9.
Size Matters: Use a 12" pot and one of each plant but Cora Vinca; go for two of these.
Sunshine Factor: Best in 6+ hours of sun.
Flower Power: Blooms early summer to frost.
Brown-Thumb Approved: You bet.