Selecting correct outdoor pots for entryways is key for a great first impression and curb appeal. People tend to look at the front door before anything else. Outdoor pots and containers come in various sizes, colors, and styles that you are bound to find just the perfect one for your entryway landscape. In the photo above, the outdoor containers look to be constructed of wood painted white. If you are selecting a wooden container paint it the same color of the trim on your home or another color present on your house. This will create more unity. I love the plant selection, evergreen and healthy.
Just like in the picture below, the plant selection for entryway pots are evergreen. Year round curb appeal is the goal.
The pots below flanking the door are too large, prohibiting easy access entering the home. It is a nice style complimenting the home and maybe can be used elsewhere on the property. The pots at the bottom of the steps are not creating harmony because 3 different styles are used.
In the photo below there isn’t enough room for 2 pots on either side of the front door. The style and size of the potted Dwarf Alberta Spruce is a great selection. The small pot at the steps should be removed.
I love the color and curves of the pots below because they repeat the curves of the window. They are 2 sizes too small and not in proportion with the house.
Love the selection of outdoor pots below because they contrast nicely with the lighter color brick. If you going to install topiary plants into your pots, they need to be staked to grow straight. I would even move the pots to the landscape beds, just outside the railing to plant colorful annuals at its base.
The bigger the pot size is, the less work for you to maintain them. Some plants to avoid placing in pots by the front door are:
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Deciduous plant material
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Plants with thorns
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Plants with spines on the foliage
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Plants attracting bees
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Plants having berries that may drop
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Water loving plants (unless you have a water drip line installed)
Suggestions on Evergreen Plants for Containers:
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Rhododendrons
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Ligustrum
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Holly (the variety with softer foliage)
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Dwarf Alberta Spruce
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Rosemary
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Camellia
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Boxwood
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Arborvitae
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Cleyera
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“Silver King” Euonymous
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“Spiney Greek” Juniper
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Osmanthus
To add a splash of color along with your potted evergreens, plant annuals along with them. Marigolds, periwinkle, impatiens, or begonias.
Make sure you are installing drought tolerate plants if you are not able to water during the hot summer months.
Outdoor pots and containers are a crucial element of your curb appeal. Take your time selecting pots complimenting your landscape and your home. Take a snapshot of your home before you venture off on a shopping spree. You may even check out the local antique shops to find a treasure.
Happy Planting!
Diana Gardner-Williams www.greensborogardens.wordpress.com
Landscape Design and Installation
