Piggyback Pots

Use three different sizes of rolled-rim pots for this dressy take on the idea.

Plants and What They Like

Top pot: ‘Blue Pyramid’ cypress and Mexican heather
Middle pot: begonias and Sprenger asparagus fern
Bottom pot: petunias
Light: full sun to light shade
Water: every other day during hot summer months, less often when cool.

The Nitty-Gritty

Following these tips will help prevent your creation from toppling.

The deeper you sink the upper pot into the lower one, the greater the stability.
In large containers, place two bricks side by side for a stable base. This also prevents the top pot from sinking.

Potting Table

Every potting area needs a sturdy potting table. This one not only holds all of your plants and supplies, but it’s also great-looking outdoor furniture.

Order detailed plans and step-by-step instructions for our Potting Table. This plan is available via e-mail as a printable PDF. To order send a $4 check made payable to Southern Living Projects and your e-mail address to: Potting Table Project, Southern Living Projects, P.O. Box 11407, Lockbox 1014, Birmingham, AL 35246-1014. If you prefer to receive a copy by regular mail, include a self-addressed, stamped (with two first-class, letter-rate stamps), business-size envelope with your check. Allow four to six weeks for delivery.

"Piggyback Pots" is from Southern Living's Container Gardens.

How do you get different looks from ordinary pots? It’s simple; you stack them. Purchase terra-cotta pots in all shapes and sizes. They’re inexpensive and look great after they’re filled with annuals, herbs, and plants with attractive foliage.|Steve Bender