This Forum will close on Wednesday 27 March, 2024. Please refer to the announcement on the Discussions page for further detail.
Ideas for large rectangular planters
Hi there, I would really appreciate some advice on what I could plant in a large grey rectangular wooden planter (I have two actually) which I hope to place at the front of my house (south facing, located in the country, large white modern house, with a glass front), to soften the look of the house to make it feel more country, to give colour throughout the year, and could endure quite harsh winds throughout the winter months and still look well? I know it is a lot to ask. 
Plus, would I need to line my planters with plastic to help them last longer?
0
Posts
Hi Jayne. My first thought would be Phormiums as it's a modern house - they'll withstand the temperatures and the wind - but if you want something softer looking I'd suggest a foliage shrub like Euonymous or Pittosporum with annuals and bulbs for colour. If the winds are very wild you might need to keep an eye on the foliage of shrubs as it can get a bit shredded. Holly would also be a good choice - we had standards in lead pots at a previous house in a similar aspect, but we had to weigh them down a bit to counteract the wind -leaving them in their natural conical shape would be easier! I'm sure others will come up with plenty more suggestions
Personally, I'd line the planters to prevent them rotting.
I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
Thanks for your reply. I had a look at them and the euonymous is a lovely foliage plant! That's very helpful!
No not a howling gale every day - but in the winter as its on a hill it can get very blustery, Thanks Verdun.