Container gardening primer

Still more images from Olbrich Botanical Gardens in Madison. This group concentrates on all the myriad ways the staff plant and display containers. They include subtle potted groups that reflect the surrounding landscape . . .

. . . planted pots set deep within the larger garden 

. . . planted pots rising out of similarly colored floral areas

. . . same colors as above but using different plants for a completely different effect

. . . one plant per container for drama and emphasis

. . . these pots are a perfect way for those of us in cold climates to enjoy tropical plants in the garden but still easily bring them indoors in the fall

. . . a reminder that pots don't always need to be planted to have an effect in the garden

. . . a secret spot for a conversation with only a potted plant separating the speakers (note the sedge lawn instead of grass)

. . . and the pots de resistance at the garden entrance.

Comments

[Altoon]

These are wonderful. I especially like the grand spikiness of photo #7, atop the pillar; the shapes and textures work so beautifully together.

[Lisa at Greenbow]

It is wonderful that they have places to bring in those huge planters for winter. The agaves look so dramatic in the garden.

[Les]

A few carefully chosen pots and plants make this place seem like somewhere other than Wisconsin. In the last picture, it looks as if you sat on those benches long enough you might root in.

[Erin @ The Impatient Gardener]

I am a container garden junkie but I love the image of the beautiful unplanted pot in the garden. Sometimes simpler really is better, I guess.