This past May, I was lucky enough to be involved with the incredible Southern Living Idea House in Nashville, Tenn. There, I met Rhoda, the creative force behind the Southern Hospitality blog. She is a well-known Atlanta-area blogger whose impeccable, Southern style is evident in all she creates. Rhoda and I instantly connected and she offered me the opportunity to visit her home and plant alongside her. Rhoda said the outside of her house needed a little extra help, so we put our green thumbs together to create these sun-loving container gardens. Here’s the fruit of our creative collaboration:

How to create a sun-loving container garden.

Step 1: Ensure your container has holes and then fill it with soil.

Step 2: Place the snapdragons in the back of the container. (I arranged mine in the shape of a triangle).

Step 3: Place the Angelina sedum to the right of the snapdragons.

Step 4: Add the Purple Pixie® Loropetalum. It is sensitive, so work with care. But, trust me, it is well worth the effort as it beautifully drapes and cascades over the container. It’s also ideal for this particular type of container as it does not like wet feet.

Step 5: For instant gratification, fill the remaining space with Rosalyn pansies.

During the winter months, these containers need to be watered twice a week, which is less frequent than needed in the summer. Also use a water-soluble fertilizer.

That’s all for now. However, I look forward to more opportunities to plant alongside Rhoda – it’s truly been a pleasure! Be on the lookout for additional ways we will transform her front yard with gems from the Southern Living Plant Collection.