Our seasonal color team is growing new ideas. This year we want to plant combinations that surprise and delight using more purposeful plants. We like to use hardy plants rather than tropical plants simply because they do well in our Nebraska weather, they are more cost-effective and are more unique.
Although this is beautiful, let’s start using hardier plants that will still create your summer oasis.
While tropicals can create a beautiful poolside oasis, they can also be very costly and require more maintenance. They are expensive due to the added cost of freight. Choosing plants that are grown in the Midwest, takes away the large cost of a truck driving across the country to deliver plants. This means less air pollution from freight transportation and a better environment. We also like that hardier plant selections are sustainable and will require less maintenance if selected appropriately. For example, a $100 palm could easily be replaced with a $60 shrub that can also be repurposed into the landscape. Choosing hardy plants is also different from what your neighbor down the block is doing.
This year, due to Hurricane Irma, it will be difficult to find tropicals. There was a lot of damage to Florida greenhouses and most suppliers will have trouble quickly filling orders. The plants that will be supplied this year may be smaller and lower quality than what we’re used to.
Caryopteris
So, instead of using tropicals this year, we recommend using trees, shrubs, perennial grasses, flowering perennials, and even some annuals that can still add some height. Let’s get creative with your containers! Consider creating mini landscapes or plant communities that work together. Selecting the right plant for the right place means less watering. With careful selection, you could have a container that’s blooming for months and last through the seasons. If you like annuals, our seasonal color team can help you select ones that look like perennials!
It’s also fun to watch small plants and perennials as they grow. Rather than a static palm tree, you can watch the plants mature, berry, or flower.
Native plants will also attract the interest of pollinators, making your garden an enjoyable place to relax and enjoy nature.
Ninebark, zinnia, boxwood, huechera, and petunias
Kinghorn Gardens believes in planting containers that will compliment each garden’s unique design intent. Contact our seasonal color team about putting together containers that will compliment your garden this year!
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