Simple and Pretty Patio Flowerpots

It’s been a crazy summer so far. It seems like everywhere you turn, there is another event canceled. At Sunny Side Up, though, we’re happy to be spending a little more time at home, especially outside. I’ve been busy adding charm to our outside spaces, like our farmhouse side entry. I spent Saturday morning at a local nursery, Wardell’s, picking out some annuals. Creating simple and pretty patio flowerpots were my goals. With all the “ugly” going on in the world right now, pretty flowers always put a smile on my face. And I really like supporting local, small businesses.

A Few Tips for Simple and Pretty Patio Flowerpots

• You don’t have to make a fancy arrangement. One flower in the entire pot can still look striking, especially if it’s bright or high contrast.
• Make sure what you’re planting can thrive where your flowerpots are situated. For example, a flower that likes sun won’t grow well in a shady spot. When you’re in a nursery looking at all the pretty flowers, this should be your reality check.
• If you’re planting in a larger pot, fill the bottom with stones or empty and crushed water bottles, not just soil. Your plants need adequate drainage to prevent root rot.
• Multiple flower types look really eye-catching when you have a taller plant surrounded by smaller plants and then something that drapes, such as ivy.
• Before you run out to buy a new flowerpot, check to see if something you already have on hand can work. I bought my tall, brown glazed pots a few years ago and they are really high quality. I have found that spending a little bit more money for something that is timeless in style, and also lasting, outweighs getting something trendy or lightweight and not durable. Yard sales are also great places to score good terracotta or glazed pots. If you find something you like and if you have the space for them, snag them. I have regretted not doing this in the past.
• Feel free to experiment with what you plant. I have a friend who plants impatiens year after year. If you’re the type that never wavers from your “usual”, have at it. I’m the type of gal who likes to change things up. This year, I am going with red impatiens, white geraniums, and purple-blue verbena for an all-American, classic look. Plus, our local fireworks were canceled, but I for one, am still going to find a way to celebrate.

How I Planted My Simple and Pretty Patio Flowerpots

My entire back patio will be gone or refinished in the future as one of our many projects. However, since Rome wasn’t built in a day, I have to be patient as we complete projects around here. Making the space more attractive “for now” is just going to have to work for the time being until this remodel becomes a higher priority (not happening soon).

1. Remove old debris from the planters and give their surfaces a good wipedown to clean them up after their time in storage.
2. Gather all planting utensils and soil amendments so they’re all in the same general space. Gloves are important, too. Besides just keeping your hands cleaner, you sometimes don’t know what your skin may react to.
3. Add a high-quality, organic potting mix to the planters until they are mostly full but still have room for the flowers. At this point, don’t be tempted to overload your planters. The flowers will grow!
4. Mix in some organic fertilizer to the planting medium to give your flowers some nourishment.
5. Plant your flowers, being careful to make sure they are planted deep enough.
6. Add additional potting mix to make sure the flowers are supported and pat everything down until it’s level.
7. Water your flowers well!

Watch the video here!

How to Keep Your Flowerpots Looking Pretty All Summer

Your flowers may go through a bit of a shock as they settle into their pots. Instead of getting frustrated if they start looking a little less than beautiful, give them time. Make sure they’re getting the kind of sun they require, plenty of water, and occasional fertilizer if needed. I deadhead old flowers frequently to keep the blooms coming all summer long. Just a few minutes of maintenance can go a long way toward this small investment pay off, giving you something you can enjoy the entire season.