Planning Cues

Here are some more considerations when combining plants.

• “Let the container’s size dictate the scale of the plants you choose,” John says. A pot needs plants of equal stature to look appropriate. In a very large planter, consider a small tree or shrub to provide enough heft.
• Add a small shrub for texture and color. To get double miles from a plant, use it in the container now, and anticipate a use for it in the landscape later.
• Combine bold and fine textures such as croton and asparagus fern.