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Grow & Dry Potted Basil |
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How to dry fresh basil.
You may ask why we are bringing up drying basil in the dead
of winter? Well, we think you should be
planning now what herbs, flowers, and plants you want to grow in garden
containers this coming spring. So maybe
if we tell you how to dry potted basil (popular herb) and why you want to dry it, you
will include it in your coming garden décor.

Dried basil in flowerpots can be used in so many cooking recipes. Sauces, pesto, chicken and pasta dishes. It really is one of the most used and desired
herbs you can pot and grow at home. And,
have you ever priced basil at the grocery store? argh.

If you don’t want to grow your own basil in flowerpots you
can always dry any fresh basil that you purchase at the grocery store.
After harvesting the basil grown in clay planters, make sure
it’s gently washed. Lay the basil
bunches in a dish strainer or on a kitchen towel where they can dry
completely. Remove as much stem as
possible because they don’t dry so well.

Preheat your oven to the lowest setting. Line a baking sheet with parchment and spread
leaves out so they aren’t touching. Place in the oven for around 1 to 2 hrs.
checking every 15 mins or so. You don’t
want the leaves to burn but just feel dry to the touch. Remove and cool completely. Now you can crumble it up removing any
stems. Bottle the crumbles and store in
a cabinet out of sunlight.

See how simple this is! You can easily
grow and dry your own basil in almost any size and kind of flowerpot. By using a clay planter instead of planting
directly into your yard or garden, you can container the roots from spreading. We like to grow all herbs in terracotta clay
instead of other types of garden pottery because the clay will breathe and that
is good for creating healthy roots. So,
if you have clay flowerpots or any clay planters laying around use those
first. Just make sure they are large
enough to hold the number of herbs you want to grow.
[Read More] Better Berries Potted |
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potted basil, grow basil in flowerpots, dry potted basil, basil dried |
By Arizona Pottery Post Last Updated: 2/20/2020 2:02:42 PM |
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Winter Wonderland of Garden Containers |
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Right now, the earth is quiet. Winter is upon us and there isn’t much going
on in our yard and garden areas. Let’s
talk about adding some décor to our stark and barren landscape planters. If you think it takes a lot of decorative
talent to create unusual and inexpensive garden containers then you would be
wrong.
Below we are going to show you examples of simple, easy, and
cheap ways to “dress up” your garden pottery that are doable no matter if you
have flower arranging skills or not. So,
let’s dive right in.
One great tip for most of these planters is the word “stuff”. We recommend that this not be the time you
skimp on materials. When you are filling
empty planters for winter, you need to fill them with as many decorative items
as you can. The more the merrier is
really germane here. So, stuff them up!

Berry Branches: A
natural yet simple terracotta garden pot is crammed with all kinds of assorted
plant materials. The main theme is dark
green and red. Fill the pot with
branches of assorted conifers, graceful cedar, spiky holly, and juniper. Drape limp branches over the sides and stand
stiff sticks in the center to create height and flow. Once finished with all the greens, place the
berry branches with emphasis on different heights. You don’t need a lot here just splats of
color nestled among the branches.
Simple, natural and truly superb.

Feathers & Pods: A small low-profile
planter is filled with all kinds of fun objects with very little emphasis on
greens. The evergreens are almost an afterthought. Place bundles of cinnamon sticks, pinecones,
moss balls, quail feathers inside the garden bowl till it is filled. Add bundles of dried pots and curly willow
around the bundles. Finish by adding a
sprig or two of limp cedar and eucalyptus in and around the bundles. Just push anything you can find laying in the
yard or around the patio into and between the bigger items. This is planter arrangement is perfect for a
patio table or porch area.

Wire Sphere & Twinkle Lights: This winter garden urn is for the person who
wants elegance for little fuss. Any
empty planter works great for this look.
Purchase a wire sphere from any craft store. String little twinkle lights around it and
that is pretty much it. Make sure the
home and garden urns are placed near an electrical outlet or that one is
located close by. Plug it in and you
have an imaginative, impressive and really inexpensive decorative vase.

Winter Window Box Planter:
Another really easy idea to copy.
Take green spruce or graceful cedar branches and start on the outside
and front first. Place the branches
inside the planter with the ends sticking out the side and draping over the
front of the window. Then add the top and
center, following the same thing. Just
keep sticking branches in until you get the look you want. Once all branches are mixed together, they
will create a woven pattern which helps to keep them all from moving. Then top them off with a few branches of
pussy willow. It adds softness and texture to the overall window box.
We hope these few ideas can help you to create artistic
garden planters for your porch, patio, home or garden areas. Just because it’s pretty sparse outside
doesn’t mean you can’t dress it up a bit!
Share your thoughts below. We love to hear from you!
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[Read More] 3 Reasons Your Containers Might Fail. |
[Read More] Cleaning Tips For Terracotta Pots. |
winter garden containers, planters, pottery, window boxes, diy, easy, inexpensive planters, pots, arizonapottery |
By Arizona Pottery Post Last Updated: 1/7/2020 10:30:37 AM |
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Give Terracotta Pottery A Second Look |
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Arizona Pottery has been in the pottery industry since 2000. We have seen and continue to see all kinds of trends come and go when it comes to choices of garden planters. Fiberglass, Poly Resin, High Fired, Low Fired, Concrete, Black Clay, Terracotta the list goes on and on.
Why did we start with red terracotta and it continues to be our best seller? Because it is timeless. Terra cotta pots have been around for ages and they tend to come and go in popularity but in this post, we want to discuss some of the pros and cons.
When it comes to cons when using terra cotta flowerpots and garden planters the list is pretty short.
* Dry out quickly.
* Breakdown over time.
* Become heavy once planted.
* Discolor over time
* Plain and boring
So let’s look at a few pros on why they are basically timeless and still popular.

HEALTH
Healthy for a plant’s, roots – Did you know that terra cotta clay breathes? Yes, it is very healthy for all plants root systems. Because the clay “breathes” it will also show the chemicals that are in your potting mix or fertilizer. Every time you water the potted plant, the water soaks into the clay, eventually seeping out, the clay will start to show a calcium build up or white lines and markings. This is loved and appreciated by many terracotta owners. So much so that they try to age their planters by applying milk to the outside so that moss will grow and the pot will look aged faster than the natural process.

WEIGHT
Terracotta planters are not known for being the heaviest garden containers around but once they are filled with damp potting mix, they can become quite heavy. This is great if you are planting a tree or shrub and the yard pot is placed in a spot where it will receive some wind. Lightweight or Fiberglass containers will blow over very easily. If you need added weight you can always put a brick or rocks in the bottom of the planter before adding the potting mix. Just make sure you have it placed where you want it since you won’t be able to move it easily.

DISCOLORATION
One of the worse and most popular reasons for using terracotta is the aging process that naturally occurs. Like we stated above green thumb gardeners won’t use anything else and rejoice in the aging process. It is a sign of beauty and age that can hardly be duplicated. If you are the type who likes their containers to look brand new then Terracotta is not the planter for you.

PLAIN/BORING
Yes, terracotta is ageless and is seen everywhere. Maybe you need something different a bit more modern or contemporary. Terra cotta pottery is considered traditional, timeless and naturalistic, all good things but maybe not your thing. That is fine. If you like the look of clay but not clay itself there are resin pots that are textured and come in the terracotta color that will stand up to an explosion. Unless someone walks up and knocks on the planter they will not know it’s not the real clay of terracotta.

So, these are the best pros and cons that we can think of today. How about you? What do you like or not like about Terracotta garden planters and containers.
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[Read More] Potted Jasmine To Help You Sleep |
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clayflowerpots, terracotta, clay pots, planters, pots, terra-cotta |
By Arizona Pottery Post Last Updated: 2/19/2019 3:10:51 PM |
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Squirrels In Your Flowerpots |
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Squirrels digging in your flowerpots?
Come on who doesn’t think squirrels are cute? When you went out of the porch to water your flowerpots you noticed some digging in the potting mix or a few nibbles off the leaves is taking place. Well, we don’t believe in harming animals when there are perfectly natural ways to keep them away. It just takes a few simple steps for you to achieve results.

Many animals don’t like the scent of different types of herbs & spices. So, let’s start there. Sprinkle cayenne pepper around the plants and the scent will keep them away. Sprinkling ground herbs around living plants are used a lot and will not harm the plants at all. Paprika or Red Pepper Flakes work also. Of course, after a bit of time more will need to be added but if it works, then why not!

If you have thought a time or two about potting some herbs try mixing your garden planters with potted flowers and herbs. Mix Mint in with other plants and the scent will keep squirrels away. This not only looks beautiful but if you like the smell of mint having a bit in your garden containers will only add to your enjoyment.

If the digging is getting out of hand, try laying a layer of mulch, hay, toys, nuts in the shell, seashells, colored rocks or marbles on the top of the potting mix. The squirrels won’t want to touch them and dig around them to get to the roots of the plant and will move on to an easier next victim. This can also be fun and give your flowerpots a finish almost decorative look.

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[Read More] Small Space Garden Center |
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By Arizona Pottery Post Last Updated: 2/19/2019 1:04:19 PM |
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Fall into Winter Containers |
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Now your Fall garden planters around your home and yard should be looking pretty spent. The mums may have started to fade and the grasses have been beaten by the wind. We would like to make a few suggestions on how to transition into your winter containers.

The main focus is to plant the containers with plants that will last thru the harsh winter temps and still look presentable and decorative. In many cases, you only need to plant on center evergreen and then add a bunch of decorative items to make the whole container more dazzling and lively.

Birch branches are always a big addition. You can tie them together to create a cluster and stick in the center of the planter. This gives the planter height, a stark white contrast to the deep green plant that is unique. Berry Branches are also stunning when sticking out of an evergreen. You can cut them off an existing bush or purchase them at the local craft store. Holly is a wonderful addition to any winter planter.

Pods and Seed Heads are very decorative. They add a dried touch to the yard pots and can be sprayed with spray paint that matches your décor. Red, Gold & Greens look lovely for the holidays while the natural earth tones will last into the new year and still look lovely.

Conifers in all varieties are the very best. Cedar, spruce, and boxwoods are the perfect addition to any winter container because they can handle the harsh weather and fill your planter with lots of earthy green color and texture. Junipers, ornamental cabbage, and kale are large and work wonderfully planted around the outside of your pottery.

Now that we have given you a few suggestions for turning the Fall planters into Winter planters around your yard, patio or porch we think it is time to try thinking outside the box. Look around your yard or your neighbor’s yard and see the different types of plants, shrubs, berries, and branches that are growing. Try adding them into your design and create a planter that will last for many months to come. |
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[Read More] Potted Air Plants |
[Read More] DIY Tribal Painted Flowerpots DIY |
fall containers, winter garden pottery ideas, planter ideas for winter, fall and winter pots, planters, pottery |
By Arizona Pottery Post Last Updated: 1/2/2019 2:10:29 PM |
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Growing Pumpkins In Flowerpots |
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Let’s grow a pumpkin in a flowerpot!
If you find yourself limited to a deck or patio and no yard
in sight then we have the solution for how to grow your own pumpkin. Put them in a flowerpot. It is not that difficult and really a fun
thing to do.

Of course, as with anything you are going to grow in a
garden pot start by picking the container.
Pumpkins need and like room, so think big. The larger the better. If you want to grow mini pumpkins you can get
away with a smaller container but honestly they need room to grow.

If you are a apartment dweller and only have a balcony you
should use a long rectangle window box as big as you can manage. Try to get one that is 36” long if possible
and make sure whatever you use that there are drain holes in the bottom. As with other plants the roots of these
pumpkins do not like soggy soil. Drill
extra if necessary.

When selecting soil pick a potting mix that is good for
containers. Mix equal pots of mix and
compost. The compost improves the water’s
retention which pumpkin vines like. Add
in a slow release fertilizer to the soil and fill the container up to 2” below
the rim.

Time to add the seeds. We recommend following the seed
packet directions. Make sure to water
frequently since pumpkins are thirsty. There are many varieties you can grow but we
suggest you start with smaller varieties or mini pumpkins. Get your feet wet with the little ones and
then get bigger from there.

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potted pumpkin, pumpkin in flowerpots, garden pottery, yard planters, clay flowerpots |
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By Arizona Pottery Post Last Updated: 11/20/2018 10:14:27 AM |
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Why Plant Bulbs In Fall |
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Why should you plant garden bulbs in Fall?
This is a good question. This time of year when everything is starting to slow down when it comes to your garden, landscape and garden pottery. You should be thinking about cleaning out all your home and garden planters, washing them up and storing them for the winter if they can't handle the freezing temps and cold.

But, now is also the time you should pot up your garden bulbs for next Spring. Sounds strange doesn't it? Well potted bulbs need time in cooler weather conditions for several months in order for them to bloom come Spring. Basically it's the coldness of winter that encourages the bulbs to bloom. You can plant them directly into the ground of course but we feel there is nothing more beautiful come Spring then large flowerpots bursting with color and fragrance.
Garden containers are also the way to go if you live in an areas where animals can get to them for food. The containers will keep them safe and comfy till they bloom in Spring.

Potted bulbs like well draining soil or they will rot. Use our Pot Filler to fill the bottom of your planters. It will let the excess water drain off, keeps the soil from draining out the hole and provides better air circulation. A garden planter of bulbs also like 5 hours of sunlight during the growing season so make sure your planters are placed in a nice semi sunny spot.

Once the days get shorter and cooler you should be shopping the bulb catalogs for the ones you one to plant this next year. You want the soil in your planters to stay cool but not freeze. Leaves are changing color and dropping from trees. It's a beautiful time of year when nature says FALL is coming. This is the time to pot up your bulbs.

Either use existing garden planters or shop ArizonaPottery.com for some new ideas in pottery, pots and yard planters. We are not going to go into the planting etc of bulbs. This blog is to address the fact that now is the time to start planting.
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[Read More] Get Ready Now For Winter |
[Read More] Container Tricks |
bulbs, potted bulbs, fall bulbs, bulbs in flowerpots, pottery, pots, planters, terracotta, garden pottery |
By Arizona Pottery Post Last Updated: 10/24/2018 2:14:06 PM |
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Containers that say "Welcome" |
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Creating any landscape decor is fun and awesome to try. Doing it with potted plants and flowers is really creative and delightful. When you look at your front yard landscape do you see it as welcoming and warm or barren and cold?
With the holidays coming and guests arriving more than normal, now is the time to take a check on the pots you have displayed and start to consider the pottery you need to add. There is nothing more inviting to your guests than a wonderful display of flowerpots or houseplants. We know how much you care about the inside of your home, so now is the time to make sure the outside shows the same attention.

Potted garden containers are really just mini gardens with in a garden. When placed near the front door entryway or porch it's your way of saying welcome with potted flowers that not only look lovely but smell pleasing. Select pottery that matches or compliments your exterior. Maybe you have a large porch with white wicker furniture and lace. Fill those planters with pinks, lavender and lots of green ferns to compliment and complete the look.

If you have a walkway that has matching pillars on each side of the entryway this is the time to make sure they are topped with large garden bowls overflowing with colorful flowers and pot toppers. Maybe you don't have access to a garden hose, then pot them with succulents or cacti, that don't take a lot of care. Create a elegant and stylish look that is simple yet sensational.

By adding tons of colored flowers to your garden containers you create a burst of beauty that is always pleasing to the eyes and so welcoming to your guests. Always add a sweet fragrant plant to welcome your guests with perfume that says.... LOVELY! If you want to decorate them for the holidays that is fun and creative also. Fill the pots with gourds and mini pumpkins for fall or evergreens and branches with red berries for Christmas.
Lastly, keep the potted flowers and plants you display cleaned up. Don't let them die off and clutter up the planters. Keep them dead headed and new flowers re-potted so that they look lovely all season long. Nothing says we don't care what you think then garden pottery filled with dead or dying flowers and plants.
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welcoming garden containers. garden pottery, planters, pots, garden planters, gardening, containers, flowerpots |
By Arizona Pottery Post Last Updated: 9/19/2018 3:09:04 PM |
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Maintaining A Potted Garden |
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Here are a few easy tips on how to maintain your potted garden.
Even though choosing to pot up your plants, trees & flowers is physically easy taking care of them properly take certain actions. You must be vigilance when it comes to grooming, watering & fertilizing

Grooming tips - Keep floral dead flowers removed. It not only makes the plant look better but it encourages them to flower again. If the foliage looks like it is growing out of shape or off on one side, cut back the branches so they look better and not knarly. Use small scissors to keep any topiary looking trimmed and leaves & stems from poking out.

Watering Schedule - When it comes to when and how long to water your potted garden it really depends on the weather conditions you find yourself experiencing. If it's really hot outside you need to water every day. Soak the potting soil till completely moist and water comes out the drain hole of the planter. If it's cooler weather you should water every other day or so depending on the weather. Light colored containers hold water longer. Terracotta is porous so it seeps out faster and needs to be watered more often. A poly resin planter holds water longer.

Fertilizing - It's always easiest to water your garden containers at the same time you water. When it's warmer and your plants are blooming, fertilize when you water the plants every two weeks or so. As the weather cools use less fertilizer. Remember that the potting mix starts out with fertilizer already in it but that will run out eventually, depending on how much you water, how large the pot etc....

Knowing when and how to take care of your potted garden makes the job so much easier and enjoyable. As the garden season ends you may have to move some planters to a shed or garage for protection. Cut down the plants that require it and understand that when the season is over for some annuals it's over and all you can do is take them out of the pots and compost them. Store you garden containers indoors till next Spring when you can bring them out, wash them and plant again.

Good Luck,
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potted gardens, garden containers, garden pottery, planters, pots |
By ArizonaPottery Post Last Updated: 6/20/2018 9:28:25 AM |
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Just Add Water |
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No space for a pond? No problem. Did you know you can create a water world in a garden container? Who doesn't like to look at or listen to water when on the patio, porch or in the garden.

Of course when trying to select a container you need to consider all your choices. Plastic buckets, colorful waterproof laundry baskets or garden pottery and containers where the drain hole has been plugged. Just make sure the container needs to be able to hold water. If for example you like the look of terracotta and really want to turn a terra-cotta container into a pond you can always line it with black flexi pond liners. They are easily cut to fit and will give you the illusion of depth when viewed thru the water.

Next choose the plant materials. There are really a lot to choose from. Aquatic plants that you buy can simple be placed inside your water garden container. There is no need to repot them in another medium. Just add a few floating plants for a finished look. When it comes to chooses you can go with submerged plants which grow partly in and partly out of the water in full sun or shade. Or floating plants like lilies like elephant ears. Lastly shoreline plants like paprus which grow to 18 inches and add height.

Whether or not you choose to have a pump that will circulate the water or create a fountain is up to you. You will have to contact them for further information but they are great options to consider.

Control algae in your container by limiting its sunlight and nutrients. Place the pot out of direct sun and include underwater and floating plants that elbow algae out and shade the waters surface. Above all else. Use what you like and think is attractive, find that perfect spot for the container and give it a go. You never know, this maybe the best garden feature you will own.
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water gardens, container gardens, container ponds, water in pots. |
By ArizonaPottery Post Last Updated: 6/19/2018 2:49:45 PM |
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