DESIGN THE PERFECT PLANTER

Spring is the perfect time to refresh your outdoor spaces, and nothing transforms a porch, patio, or balcony quite like a thoughtfully designed planter. But with so many flowers, soils, and arrangements to choose from, where do you start? At Kenyon Noble, we’re here to make it simple. Here’s how to create planters that are beautiful, balanced, and built to thrive all season long.

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Start With Sunlight

The most important factor in selecting plants for your planter is light. Different flowers and greenery thrive in different conditions, so take note of where your planter will sit:

• Full Sun (6+ hours of direct light): Petunias, geraniums, and marigolds love the sunshine.
  
  
• Partial Shade (3–6 hours of light): Impatiens, begonias, and hostas perform well in mixed light.
  
  
• Full Shade (minimal direct sun): Ferns, caladiums, and coleus can tolerate low light while still adding bold texture and color.
  
  

Matching your plants to your space’s light ensures they stay healthy and look their best all season. Come check out the selection of flowers and more at the Bozeman Garden Center!

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Pick the Right Soil

Healthy plants start with healthy soil. For container gardening, regular garden dirt won’t do the trick — you’ll need a quality potting mix designed to drain well and support root growth. Here are a few products we love:

• Miracle-Gro Potting Mix is an excellent all-purpose option that boosts growth and flower color.
  
  
• Miracle-Gro Moisture Control helps prevent over- or under-watering, ideal for busy gardeners and lifestyles.
  
  

Miracle-Gro Organic provides a natural, eco-friendly option for those looking to keep things organic.

If you’re unsure which soil is best for your planter or how much you’ll need, the experts at Kenyon Noble can help you choose the right mix.

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Use the ‘Thriller, Filler, Spiller’ Method

A well-balanced planter isn’t just about picking pretty flowers — it’s about creating visual interest. A tried-and-true method is the “thriller, filler, spiller” technique. Let’s break down what that means.

• Thriller: A tall, eye-catching plant placed in the center or back of the planter, like spikes or lamb’s ear.
  
  
• Filler: Medium-height plants that fill the middle space — colorful petunias, coleus, or other greenery work well here.
  
  
• Spiller: Cascading plants that spill over the edges, like vinca or sweet potato vine, softening the look and adding movement.
  
  

So start with your thriller, choose complimentary filler, and top it off with a spiller. This combination creates layers of height, texture, and color that look great from every angle.

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Keep Your Planter Thriving

Once your planter is designed and planted, don’t forget about care. Water thoroughly right after planting, then check moisture regularly throughout the season — especially on hot days. Fertilizing every few weeks will also keep blooms vibrant and foliage healthy.

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Create Your Perfect Planter with Kenyon Noble

Designing the perfect planter is a rewarding way to brighten your home’s exterior and welcome the season. Whether you’re aiming for bold pops of color or soft, lush greenery, the right combination of plants, soil, and design technique can make all the difference.

Whether you’re tackling this project on your own or simply want to learn more about home improvement, be sure to check out this episode of Kenyon Noble Know How. We’ll guide you through each step, offering tips and tricks to make the process even easier.

Get started on your next DIY project with Kenyon Noble Know How. Visit us today for all your project needs, and don't forget to watch our episode for step-by-step guidance!