Tropical plants in containers can add eye-catching color, texture, and foliage to any outdoor space. They bring a tropical feel to patios, porches, or decks, and many tender plants can be overwintered in colder climates, making them a smart investment year after year.
Creating Lush Displays
Tropical container gardens create lush, eye-catching displays all season long, whether you love dramatic foliage, flowers, or a mix of both. A red Abyssinian banana, for example, can be used as a specimen in a container, either by itself or with other supporting plants, to create a showstopping display.
These plants require specific care, such as letting them dry a touch between waterings, but giving them a good soaking when you do water. The combination of plants, including the red Abyssinian banana, geranium, and creeping Jenny, provides a formal composition that can serve as a striking focal point in an informal setting.
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Overwintering Tropical Plants
Tropical plants can stay outside until night temperatures get below 50 degrees F. Once brought indoors, they can be placed in a sunny south-facing window with plenty of humidity. Alternatively, container-grown plants, such as bananas, can be cut back to 6 inches tall, placed in a cool, dark location, and allowed to dry out, with new growth beginning in a few weeks.
Another option for overwintering tender bulbs, such as elephant ear, caladium, and canna, is to cut them back after frost, dig up the bulbs or tubers, and store them in slightly damp peat moss in a cool, dry location. This method allows the plants to survive the winter and be replanted in the spring.
Terra-cotta containers, which are breathable, will dry out faster than glazed ceramic or plastic pots, so it’s essential to keep an eye on the soil moisture, especially in the summer. Plants like lantana, croton, and New Guinea impatiens have different watering requirements, with lantana being drought-tolerant and the others being thirstier.
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Container Plant Combinations
Some container plant combinations can create a big impact, even in small containers. A combination of croton, New Guinea impatiens, and lantana, for example, can grab attention with tropical colors and patterned foliage, making it perfect for leading guests to a patio seating area.
In general, tropical plants in containers require careful consideration of their watering and humidity needs, as well as protection from extreme temperatures. With proper care, these plants can thrive and provide a lush, tropical feel to any outdoor space.
For those looking to add a touch of the tropics to their outdoor space, there are many resources available, including tropical garden design.
