Best Plants For Narrow Planters: Slim Space Solutions (2024)

When designing gardens, it’s important to utilize every space, including the narrow planters. These planters often have challenging growing conditions with limited soil and space for roots. However, there are several plants that are perfect for these slim spaces, thriving with little water and shallow roots. Here are some of the best plants for narrow planters that can add beauty and greenery to your garden.

Key Takeaways:

• Choose plants that thrive with little water and shallow roots for narrow planters.
• Succulents and teucrium varieties are great options for narrow planters.
• Consider incorporating tall plants, grasses, and vines to add vertical interest.
• Containers can be used effectively to create privacy in small outdoor spaces.
• Select plants that fit your maintenance style and time commitment.

Succulents – Diverse and Drought-Tolerant

When it comes to finding space-saving plants for small planters, succulents are a fantastic choice. These versatile plants have shallow roots, making them ideal for narrow planters with limited soil and space. Not only are succulents low-maintenance, but they also thrive with minimal water, making them perfect for those looking for drought-tolerant options. With their diverse range of colors, textures, and shapes, succulents can add visual interest and beauty to your narrow planters.

Some popular succulent species suitable for small planters include sedum kamtschaticum, sempervivum ‘Royal Ruby’, and delosperma ‘Fire Spinner’. Sedum kamtschaticum, also known as Russian stonecrop, has vibrant yellow flowers that bloom in the summer, while sempervivum ‘Royal Ruby’ features rosettes of deep burgundy leaves. Delosperma ‘Fire Spinner’ showcases stunning coral flowers that attract bees and butterflies, adding life to your garden. These succulents can be combined to create an eye-catching arrangement of colors and textures in your narrow planters.

“Succulents are a fantastic choice for narrow planters due to their shallow roots and ability to thrive with minimal water.”

Succulents are not only suitable for small planters but also work well in tall narrow planters or planting boxes. Their compact size allows them to fit snugly into these slim spaces while still providing an attractive display. Whether you choose to plant them individually or create a succulent garden, these plants will bring a touch of nature and greenery to your narrow planters.

Succulent Species	Description
Sedum kamtschaticum	Low-growing succulent with vibrant yellow flowers.
Sempervivum ‘Royal Ruby’	Rosette-shaped succulent with deep burgundy leaves.
Delosperma ‘Fire Spinner’	Succulent with coral flowers that attract bees and butterflies.

Benefits of Succulents for Narrow Planters

• Succulents have shallow roots, making them perfect for narrow planters with limited soil and space.
• They are drought-tolerant and require minimal water, making them low-maintenance plants.
• Succulents come in a variety of colors, textures, and shapes, allowing you to create visually interesting arrangements in your narrow planters.
• These versatile plants can be planted individually or combined to create stunning succulent gardens in your narrow planters.
• They are suitable for both small and tall narrow planters, providing a beautiful display in any space.

Teucrium Varieties – Slim and Durable

When it comes to vertical planters and small spaces, Teucrium varieties are an excellent choice. These slim and durable plants can thrive in narrow planters and add a touch of elegance to any garden. Whether you’re looking to create a vertical garden or simply want to utilize the limited space you have, Teucrium varieties are a great option.

One popular variety is the Fruity Germander, which features slender stems and compact growth. This plant is known for its hardiness and can withstand challenging conditions, making it ideal for small planters. Another option is the Rock Germander, which has a more upright growth habit and is perfect for creating a vertical display.

Teucrium Varieties for Vertical Planters

Variety	Growth Habit	Hardiness
Fruity Germander	Slender stems, compact growth	Hardy in different zones
Rock Germander	Upright growth	Hardy in different zones

These Teucrium varieties can serve as a beautiful framework for your narrow planters, providing structure and visual interest. They can be planted alongside other plants to create a layered effect and add depth to your garden.

With their slim and durable nature, Teucrium varieties are a perfect choice for compact planters. Whether you’re looking to create a vertical garden or simply want to make the most of your limited space, these plants are sure to thrive and add beauty to your outdoor areas.

Narrow Planter Plants for Small Spaces

When it comes to creating beautiful gardens in small spaces, narrow planters can be a great solution. These slim planters, although limited in size, can still showcase an array of plants that bring beauty and greenery to your outdoor areas. If you’re looking for plants that are perfect for narrow planters, I’ve got you covered. Here are some top picks that thrive in small spaces.

Succulents – Diverse and Drought-Tolerant

Succulents are an excellent choice for narrow planters due to their shallow roots and ability to withstand minimal water. These versatile plants come in various species and offer unique colors and textures. Consider sedum kamtschaticum, sempervivum ‘Royal Ruby’, and delosperma ‘Fire Spinner’ for a visually interesting display in your narrow planters. Their compact size also makes them suitable for tall and narrow planters or planting boxes.

Thyme – Fragrant and Low-Maintenance

Thyme is a popular herb that’s perfect for narrow planters. Not only does it add a delightful fragrance to your outdoor space, but it also requires minimal maintenance. Thyme is a low-growing plant that can be planted alongside other plants to create a visually appealing arrangement. Its evergreen foliage stays green throughout the year, providing continuous beauty with minimal effort. Consider adding thyme to your narrow planters for a fragrant and low-maintenance option.

Shade-Loving Plants – Greenery for Shady Corners

If your narrow planters are located in shady spots, there are plenty of plants that thrive in low-light conditions. Strawberry Begonia and Ajuga are excellent options for adding lush greenery to these areas. These shade-loving plants appreciate a little more water, making them suitable for planters near water sources or areas with higher moisture levels. Create a beautiful oasis in your narrow planters by incorporating these green beauties.

With these narrow planter plants, you can transform even the smallest of spaces into a thriving and visually appealing garden. Whether you choose succulents for their diversity, thyme for its fragrance, or shade-loving plants for their greenery, there’s a perfect plant for every narrow planter. So get creative and start adding life to your outdoor areas with these plant choices.

Shade-Loving Plants – Greenery for Shady Corners

If you have shady spots in your garden or narrow corners that don’t receive much sunlight, shade-loving plants can be a great option for your narrow planters. These plants thrive in partial shade and add lush greenery to these areas, creating a beautiful and inviting atmosphere. Here are some space-saving plants for small planters that will thrive in shady conditions:

• Strawberry Begonia: This plant features heart-shaped leaves and small white flowers. It is a great choice for adding a touch of elegance to your narrow planters.
• Ajuga: Also known as Bugleweed, Ajuga is a low-growing plant with vibrant purple or blue flowers. It forms a dense groundcover and is perfect for adding color to your shaded areas.

These plants appreciate a little more water, making them suitable for planters near water sources or areas with higher moisture levels. With their ability to thrive in shady conditions, these shade-loving plants will transform your narrow planters into vibrant green spaces.

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Table: Shade-Loving Plants for Narrow Planters

Plant	Description
Strawberry Begonia	Features heart-shaped leaves and small white flowers. Adds elegance to narrow planters.
Ajuga	Low-growing plant with vibrant purple or blue flowers. Forms a dense groundcover and adds color to shaded areas.

Not All Plants Need to Be Low-Growing

While low-growing plants are often preferred for narrow planters, taller plants can also add interest and verticality to these spaces. Slipper Plant and Sky Pencil Holly are examples of taller plants that can grow in narrow planters but still maintain a slim profile. These plants provide height and structure, creating a visually appealing display in your garden.

Choosing tall narrow planter plants opens up new possibilities for creating stunning focal points in your outdoor space. These plants can add vertical elements and draw the eye upwards, making your narrow planters a striking feature in your garden. Slipper Plant (Pedilanthus tithymaloides) is a unique option that features slender stems and vibrant red flowers, adding a touch of tropical beauty to your narrow planters. Sky Pencil Holly (Ilex crenata ‘Sky Pencil’) is another excellent choice with its narrow, columnar shape, and glossy, dark green leaves.

Using taller plants in narrow planters:

• Creates visual interest and verticality
• Adds height and structure to your garden
• Allows for unique and eye-catching focal points

Incorporating taller plants in your narrow planters can provide a sense of balance and depth to your garden design. These plants can be placed strategically to create a backdrop for lower-growing plants or to frame entrances and pathways. With their slender profiles, tall narrow planter plants maximize vertical space while still fitting seamlessly into narrow areas.

When selecting taller plants for narrow planters, consider the overall height and spread of the mature plant, as well as its specific growing requirements. It’s important to choose plants that will thrive in the limited soil and root space of a narrow planter. Additionally, regular watering and fertilizing may be necessary to ensure the health and vitality of these taller plants in their restricted growing environment.

Creating an Outdoor Wall with Plants

Looking for an innovative way to utilize narrow spaces in your outdoor area? Consider creating an outdoor wall with plants. This unique solution not only adds beauty and greenery to your space but can also serve as a screening and privacy solution. By strategically selecting plants that thrive in vertical planters and have a tall and narrow profile, you can create a stunning living wall that transforms your outdoor space.

One of the best plants for vertical planters is the Green Giant Arborvitae. This evergreen tree provides year-round coverage and can reach heights of up to 60 feet. Its dense foliage creates a lush and visually appealing barrier, offering both privacy and beauty to your outdoor area. Another excellent choice is the Sugar and Spice Arborvitae, which features stunning golden foliage and a narrow growth habit, making it perfect for vertical planters.

Plant	Description	Height	Benefits
Green Giant Arborvitae	An evergreen tree with dense foliage	Up to 60 feet	Provides year-round coverage and privacy
Sugar and Spice Arborvitae	Golden foliage with a narrow growth habit	Up to 15 feet	Offers privacy and adds visual interest

When creating an outdoor wall with plants, it’s important to choose plants that can thrive in tall narrow planters. These planters provide limited soil and space, so selecting plants with shallow roots is essential. Additionally, consider the sun exposure and watering needs of the plants to ensure they will thrive in their vertical environment.

By incorporating an outdoor wall with plants, you can transform narrow spaces into beautiful and functional areas in your outdoor space. Whether you’re looking to add privacy, create a stunning visual display, or simply make the most of every inch of your garden, this innovative solution is a perfect choice.

Using Vines for Screening and Privacy

When it comes to creating privacy and screening in narrow spaces, vines can be a fantastic solution. These climbing plants not only add a touch of natural beauty to your outdoor area, but they also create a living lattice of greenery and beautiful flowers that can effectively shield your space from prying eyes. Two popular vine options for vertical planters and compact spaces are Lonicera and Clematis.

Lonicera, commonly known as honeysuckle, is a versatile vine that thrives in narrow planters. With its fast-growing nature and ability to climb trellises, it can quickly cover walls, fences, or even vertical planters. The vibrant flowers of Lonicera add a pop of color to your space, attracting pollinators and creating a picturesque environment.

Clematis is another excellent choice for creating privacy and screening in narrow spaces. This vine boasts a stunning display of flowers in various colors and shapes, ranging from delicate white blooms to vibrant purple petals. Clematis can be trained to cover trellises, adding verticality to your outdoor design and creating a wall of greenery that enhances privacy.

Both Lonicera and Clematis are low-maintenance plants that require minimal care once established. They are well-suited for vertical planters and compact spaces, as they use their climbing abilities to make the most of limited room. By incorporating these vines into your outdoor living area, you can effortlessly create a private sanctuary that is both visually appealing and functional.

Table: Comparison of Lonicera and Clematis

Characteristics	Lonicera	Clematis
Growth Habit	Climbing vine	Climbing vine
Flower Colors	Various colors, including white, yellow, pink, and red	Various colors, including purple, blue, pink, and white
Flowering Season	Spring to summer	Spring to fall
Height	Varies by species, typically 10-20 feet	Varies by species, typically 8-20 feet
Sun Exposure	Full sun to part shade	Full sun to part shade
Watering Needs	Regular watering, keep soil evenly moist	Regular watering, keep soil evenly moist

The Beauty of Ornamental Trees and Shrubs

When it comes to adding beauty, color, and texture to your narrow planters, ornamental trees and shrubs are an excellent choice. These plants not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space but also serve as effective screening and privacy solutions for narrow areas. Some examples of small trees and shrubs that thrive in narrow planters include Japanese Maples, Hollies, and Viburnums.

Japanese Maples are known for their stunning foliage, which comes in a variety of colors, including red, orange, and green. These small trees are perfect for adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to your narrow planters. Hollies, on the other hand, offer year-round beauty with their glossy evergreen leaves and vibrant berries. They are also excellent for providing privacy and screening.

Viburnums are versatile shrubs that come in a range of sizes, making them suitable for narrow planters. These shrubs produce clusters of beautiful flowers and often have attractive foliage that changes color throughout the seasons. Whether you choose Viburnum carlesii for its fragrant blooms or Viburnum davidii for its unique blue-black berries, these shrubs will add visual interest and privacy to your outdoor space.

Plant	Characteristics	Suitable for
Japanese Maples	Stunning foliage in various colors	Narrow planters
Hollies	Glossy evergreen leaves, vibrant berries	Privacy and screening
Viburnums	Clusters of flowers, attractive foliage	Narrow planters, visual interest, privacy

Adding ornamental trees and shrubs to your narrow planters not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space but also provides privacy and screening. Japanese Maples, Hollies, and Viburnums are just a few examples of plants that can thrive in limited spaces while adding beauty and color. Consider the characteristics of each plant and choose the ones that best suit your preferences and the growing conditions of your narrow planters.

Choosing the Right Plants for Narrow Planters

When selecting ornamental trees and shrubs for your narrow planters, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, assess the space available and choose plants that will fit comfortably without outgrowing the planter. Secondly, consider the growing conditions, such as sunlight exposure and soil type, to ensure the plants you choose will thrive. Lastly, think about the maintenance requirements of each plant and choose ones that align with your gardening style and time commitment.

By carefully selecting and planting ornamental trees and shrubs in your narrow planters, you can create a visually appealing and functional outdoor space. These plants will not only add beauty and privacy but also bring a sense of tranquility and serenity to your garden.

Grasses and Tall Perennials for Unique Hedges

When it comes to creating unique hedges in small planters, grasses and tall perennials offer a dynamic and visually appealing option. These plants not only provide privacy but also add texture and movement to your outdoor space. Maidenhair Grass and Black-eyed Susans are two examples of plants that can be used to create stunning hedges in narrow planters.

Maidenhair Grass (Adiantum pedatum) is a graceful and delicate grass that adds elegance to any garden. Its feathery fronds sway with the breeze, creating a mesmerizing effect. This grass can grow up to 2-3 feet tall, making it perfect for narrow planters. With its vibrant green foliage, Maidenhair Grass brings a touch of nature’s beauty to your outdoor space.

Black-eyed Susans (Rudbeckia hirta) are tall perennials that are known for their stunning yellow flowers with dark centers. They can grow up to 3-4 feet tall and are a great choice for creating a colorful and eye-catching hedge. Black-eyed Susans are low-maintenance plants that can tolerate a variety of growing conditions, making them suitable for small planters.

Plant	Description	Height	Care Requirements
Maidenhair Grass	Graceful grass with feathery fronds	2-3 feet	Low maintenance; prefers well-drained soil
Black-eyed Susans	Tall perennials with yellow flowers and dark centers	3-4 feet	Low maintenance; tolerant of various growing conditions

“Grasses and tall perennials offer a unique and dynamic option for creating hedges in narrow planters.”

Creating a Visual Impact

By combining Maidenhair Grass and Black-eyed Susans in your narrow planters, you can create a visually stunning hedge that will be the centerpiece of your outdoor space. The contrasting textures and colors of these plants will add depth and dimension to your garden. Additionally, the height of these plants will create a natural barrier, providing privacy and screening from unwanted views.

When planting grasses and tall perennials in narrow planters, it’s important to choose containers that are deep enough to accommodate their root systems. Ensure that the planters have proper drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can be detrimental to the health of the plants.

With their unique characteristics and ability to thrive in small spaces, grasses and tall perennials are excellent choices for creating hedges in narrow planters. Whether you want to add privacy, enhance your garden’s aesthetics, or create a focal point, these plants will not disappoint.

Utilizing Containers for Privacy Solutions

If you’re looking to create privacy in small outdoor spaces, containers can be a versatile and practical solution. By carefully selecting the right plants and grouping them together in various-sized containers, you can create a mass display that effectively screens off an area. Containers can be strategically placed to provide privacy on a patio, deck, or any area that needs a little extra seclusion.

When choosing plants for your containers, consider those that are suitable for narrow planters and space-saving solutions. Shrubs, small trees, and even roses can thrive in containers and provide the privacy you desire. Choose compact varieties that won’t overpower the space but still offer lush greenery and natural beauty.

Grouping containers of different sizes together can create a visually appealing arrangement while also offering different levels of screening. You can mix and match plants with varying heights and textures to create a diverse and vibrant display. Consider using a combination of evergreen plants for year-round coverage and deciduous plants for seasonal interest.

Plant	Description
Rose ‘Iceberg’	A compact, disease-resistant rose variety with clusters of white flowers. Perfect for containers and offers continuous blooms throughout the season.
Boxwood ‘Green Gem’	A small, slow-growing evergreen shrub with dense foliage. It can be shaped into hedges or kept in its natural rounded form.
Japanese Maple ‘Bloodgood’	A beautiful ornamental tree with red foliage that adds color and texture to containers. It is a slow-growing variety that is well-suited for small spaces.
Bamboo ‘Fargesia Rufa’	A non-invasive clumping bamboo variety that adds height and privacy to containers. It has arching green foliage and can tolerate partial shade.

Remember to choose containers that are suitable for the size of the plants and provide adequate drainage. Consider the growing conditions and maintenance requirements of the plants you choose, as well as the amount of sunlight and water they need. With the right plants and containers, you can transform your small outdoor space into a private oasis.

Maintenance and Care for your Narrow Planters

When it comes to maintaining your narrow planters, it’s important to consider the specific needs of the plants you have chosen. Some compact plants are low-maintenance and require minimal care, while others may require regular pruning or attention. By understanding the care requirements of your plants, you can ensure they thrive and continue to add beauty to your outdoor space.

One key aspect of maintenance is watering. Different plants have different water requirements, so it’s important to water your narrow planters accordingly. Some plants, like succulents, have low water needs and should be watered sparingly, while others may require more frequent watering. It’s important to strike a balance and avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot and other issues.

Table: Watering Requirements for Common Narrow Planter Plants

Plant	Watering Frequency
Succulents	Once every 2-3 weeks
Teucrium Varieties	Once a week
Thyme	Once a week
Shade-Loving Plants	Once a week
Ornamental Trees and Shrubs	Once a week

In addition to watering, regular fertilization can also help keep your narrow planters looking their best. Choose a high-quality fertilizer that is suitable for your plants and follow the recommended guidelines for application. Fertilizing every few months can provide the necessary nutrients for healthy growth and vibrant foliage.

Finally, don’t forget about pest control. Keep an eye out for common pests that may affect your plants, such as aphids or mealybugs. Regularly inspect your narrow planters and take appropriate action if you notice any signs of pest infestation. There are natural remedies and insecticides available to help protect your plants and keep them thriving.

By taking the time to properly care for your narrow planters, you can enjoy a beautiful and thriving outdoor space. From watering and fertilization to pest control, each step plays a crucial role in ensuring the health and longevity of your plants. With a little maintenance and care, your narrow planters will continue to add beauty and greenery to your garden for years to come.

Conclusion

Narrow planters provide an opportunity to add greenery, beauty, and privacy to your outdoor spaces, even in the smallest of areas. By selecting the right plants for these slim spaces, such as succulents, teucrium varieties, and thyme, you can create a stunning display that will thrive in challenging conditions.

Additionally, by incorporating trees, shrubs, vines, and other plants, you can create screening, privacy, and unique design elements in your outdoor space. Consider the size, growing conditions, and maintenance requirements when choosing plants for your narrow planters to ensure a successful and visually appealing garden.

Remember, the key to successful gardening in narrow planters is to find plants that can thrive in limited soil and space for roots. Whether you opt for drought-tolerant succulents, slim teucrium varieties, or fragrant thyme, each plant brings its own unique characteristics to your garden. With careful planning and maintenance, your narrow planters can become a source of pride and beauty in your outdoor oasis.

Source Links

• https://www.finegardening.com/article/plants-for-shady-passageways
• https://sugarcreekgardens.com/living-walls-plants-for-screening-and-privacy/
• https://harmonyinthegarden.com/2020/08/plants-for-the-4-cs-corners-cracks-crannies-crevices/