Container Gardening Guide: How to Grow Like a Pro

Let’s face it: plants rule. They can add an instant pop of vitality to almost any space, while helping purify the air. Also, several studies have shown that plants have long-lasting calming effects on people. And you don’t necessarily need a backyard garden to reap the benefits. Container gardening (the practice of growing plants in containers and pots instead of planting them in the ground) is an easy and DIY-friendly solution for anyone looking to add a bit of all-season zen to their home.

Close-up image of a stone garden planter or container with scented lavender flowers in the summer sunshine

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Rock On

If you’re looking to make the most of your colourful flowers, consider using a stone planter and/or stones as a top layer to draw out the vibrant hues.

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Hanging Out

Hanging planters are the perfect way to add a little life to almost any corner. Pro tip: darker corners are perfect for ZZ plants or pothos, which can thrive in low-light conditions.

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Growing Up

Even the tiniest condo balcony can benefit from a tiered shelving unit, like this one, which adds a bit more space to showcase your greenery.

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Mix and Match

Pots come in many shapes and sizes. For a bit of whimsy, try playing with different colours and shapes. Jugs, mugs and vintage pitchers are all great options.

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Going Green

For a more minimalist look, glassware and stone can help draw out some richer greens.

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Bath in the Forest

Where there is light, there can be a container garden. For diehard green thumbs, the bathroom can be a perfect place to set up a green space with ferns and ivy.

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Stylish Eye

Looking to draw out an accent colour? Consider hitting up your local garden store. Here, a pot of flowers draws the eye toward the geometric rug.

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Soak up the Sun

The great thing about hanging planters is that they can go almost anywhere. Consider installing one along the edge of a window (like the Property Brothers did here) where the sunlight will make your job easy.

Hallway with plant and sleek modern entryway table

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Space Between

Hallways are a great space to set up a container garden, as long as there’s enough light.

Retro living room with orange couch and plants

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Power Clashing

Green doesn’t go with everything – and thankfully, it doesn’t have to. In this space, designed by the Extreme Makeover: Home Edition team, plants help draw a strong contrast between a dusty pink armchair and the clementine sofa.

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Hung Up

When it comes to hanging planters, more is more. And don’t worry about matching the pots or ropes – variety is the spice of life.

Plants in pink dining room with black candlesticks

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Dinner in the Garden

Sure, flowers on the dinner table can be nice. But a dining space can also be ideal for a container garden. When choosing your pots, make sure to leave room for plates and cutlery.

balcony garden with tiled floor, plant pots on shelves

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Order in the Courtyard

Playing around with levels and volume is one of the most fun parts of designing a container garden. Here, pots overflowing with plants are organized on a high shelf to showcase their voluminous vines.

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Great Wall of Green

A living plant wall is peak container gardening and they can work exceptionally well in outdoor spaces. If you’re looking to go this route, make sure you choose a spot that has plenty of sunlight.