For those looking to create a visually stunning and low-maintenance container, consider the dynamic trio of Sunshine Ligustrum, Orange Rocket Barberry, and Skylight Better Boxwood. This combination not only offers a pleasing array of colors and textures but also thrives across various seasons. Here’s how to use these three plants to create an alluring container display:
Choosing Your Container
Select a container that complements the vibrant hues of the plants. A large, sturdy pot with drainage holes is ideal. Ensure the container is deep enough to accommodate the roots and allow for growth. A neutral-colored pot, like wood, terracotta or dark stone, can make the colors of the plants pop.
Sunshine Ligustrum: The Bright Focal Point
Sunshine Ligustrum is the star of this trio, with its year-round golden-yellow foliage that adds a burst of brightness to any setting. Position this evergreen shrub in the center of the pot as it will form the backbone of your display. Its upright growth habit provides vertical interest and structure!
Orange Rocket Barberry: The Color Contrast
Flanking the Sunshine Ligustrum, Orange Rocket Barberry brings a complementary color contrast with its vivid coral-orange leaves in spring and rich ruby-red foliage in fall. This deciduous shrub adds a seasonal dynamic to the container, changing hues with the temperatures. Plant it toward the edge of the container to create an upward effect as it grows.
Skylight Better Boxwood: The Green Base
Encircle the base of your container with Skylight Better Boxwood. Known for its dense, evergreen foliage and tidy, rounded growth habit, this boxwood serves as a lush, green filler that contrasts beautifully against the more vivid colors of the Ligustrum and Barberry. This plant adds fullness to the arrangement and ties the composition together with its classic elegance.
Caring for Your Container Trio
- Light: All three plants enjoy full sun to partial shade. Place your container in a spot that receives at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Watering: Water the plants when the top inch of soil feels dry. Be careful not to overwater, as good drainage is crucial.
- Feeding: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to encourage healthy growth and vibrant foliage.
- Pruning: Lightly prune in early spring or late winter to maintain desired shapes and remove any damaged or overgrown branches.
Seasonal Considerations
This trio is relatively hardy but should be protected from extreme cold. In frost-prone areas, consider moving the container to a sheltered location during winter or covering it to protect it from frost.
This container planting trio not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your garden but also offers a practical solution for year-round beauty. Whether placed on your patio, flanking your front door, or featured in your garden, these plants from the Southern Living Plant Collection and Better Boxwood provide a low-maintenance yet striking display. Happy planting!
