Many people find that for one reason (poor clay soil) or another (no space) that they have to become creative when it comes to planting a garden.  So many people tend to take for granted the space and conditions they have when deciding what to plant and where.

Fleda Mackie, of El Cerrito, California started about 7 years ago by scooping up whatever she liked at her local garden center.  Now, her small yard has become an eclectic paradise of flowering plants.  Her roses, clematis, hostas & hydrangeas sit side by side with an array of succulents, orchids, calla lilies and cosmos.  “If I like the color, she says. “I bring it home”.  As her yard filled up, she turned her deck into a stage for potted plants.  “I’m afraid I’ve run out of room, she said “so now I have to be more selective”.
However, she will always find room for one more in her yard.

As you can see in the photo, her fence holds a collection of birdhouses, angels and potted succulents that thrive in full sun.  She often places potted plants among those growing in the ground to fill up the spaces and accent the garden.  Fleda has a nice area to entertain and the potted plants are accessories to her outdoor decorating scheme.

When it comes to collections - try grouping them for maximum impact instead of scattering them all around, where they may get lost in among the leaves.  Guests can view the entire garden from her deck which makes it easy and fun when showing off something new.    Use bare walls on the outside of your home to showcase collections of unusual containers filled with sun loving plant materials.  Place potted trees where the soil is poor and you need a large screen to block the view.  Place roses in pots along side perennials where each year they can be replaced with a different choice.

When it comes to containers, use terracotta with ceramic, bowls with rectangles – just mix it up.  The more the merrier!  Just be sure to keep your eye on the amount of water each container will need to keep the soil moist and the plant roots healthy.

All of these ideas are easy, fun and beautiful.  Copy Fleda and find the look that best describes who you are!