OFTEN when we move house we leave behind favourite plants. Planting some of these into pots means we get to keep them when we move.
Sometimes when we plant something it doesn't flourish because of the microclimate we place it in.
Planting into a pot allows us to move it without the fear of losing it when transplanting. They can also be repositioned easily depending on how our gardens evolve.
Here are some tips when using pots:
■Be careful if planting something that requires lots of water like a fuchsia in terracotta. If doing so, line the pot with a painted surface.
■Don't plant a small plant into a large pot, particularly palms, as they can become waterlogged and suffer root rot.
■Use potting mixes specifically designed for pot culture.
■Invest in a moisture probe to take the guesswork out of when to water.
■Place scented plants like daphne and jasmin near a door to take advantage of their fragrance.
Old galvanised buckets, enamel saucepans even old teapots can make an eye catching display, just remember to drill some drainage holes.
Even the smallest courtyard can be transformed with some colour-themed pots matched with flowers like alyssum, petunias or portulaca.
■ For more inspiration contact Michael Lee at greenthumbgardener.com.au.
