Best Plants For Planters Outside: Outdoor Hardy Varieties (2024) 3

Looking to add some greenery to your outdoor space? Look no further! In this article, I will share with you the best plants for planters outside. These outdoor hardy varieties are not only beautiful but also perfect for American climates. So, let’s dive in and discover the top plants for outdoor planters.

Key Takeaways:

• Outdoor hardy varieties are ideal for American climates.
• Japanese Maple and Geraniums are popular choices for outdoor planters.
• Box Tree and Lavender add elegance and fragrance to your outdoor space.
• Holly and Hydrangea provide color and beauty throughout the year.
• Korean Lilac and Winter Heath are hardy plants that bloom in the winter season.

Now that you know the best plants for planters outside, it’s time to transform your outdoor space into a lush and vibrant garden. Happy gardening!

Japanese Maple

The Japanese maple (Acer palmatum) is a stunning addition to any outdoor space. Its dark red leaves and elegant structure bring an oriental touch to your garden. This low-maintenance and hardy plant is perfect for pots outdoors, adding beauty and visual interest to your patio or balcony.

Key Features of Japanese Maple:

• Dark red leaves
• Beautiful autumnal effect
• Low-maintenance
• Frost protection as a young plant

The Japanese maple is a popular choice among garden enthusiasts due to its unique foliage and striking appearance. It thrives in American climates and requires minimal care, making it an ideal plant for outdoor containers.

I love how the Japanese maple adds a touch of elegance to my garden. Its dark red leaves create a beautiful contrast with the surrounding plants. It’s truly a standout in my outdoor planters.

Whether you have a small balcony or a spacious garden, the Japanese maple is a versatile and visually appealing choice for outdoor pots. Its striking colors and ornamental value make it a fantastic addition to any outdoor space.

Table: Comparison of Japanese Maple Varieties

Variety	Leaf Color	Final Height	Hardiness
Acer palmatum ‘Bloodgood’	Dark red	15-20 ft	Zone 5-8
Acer palmatum ‘Emperor I’	Purple-red	15-20 ft	Zone 5-8
Acer palmatum ‘Sango Kaku’	Coral red with hints of green	15-20 ft	Zone 5-8

Consider the various Japanese maple varieties available to find the perfect one for your outdoor planters. Whether you prefer dark red, purple-red, or coral red leaves, there is a variety that will suit your aesthetic preferences.

The Japanese maple is a versatile and beautiful plant that will enhance the visual appeal of your outdoor space. With its stunning colors and ornamental value, it is a popular choice for outdoor pots and planters.

Geraniums: Perfect Outdoor Potted Plants for your Patio

When it comes to choosing the best plants for pots outdoors, geraniums are an excellent choice. These popular plants, also known as Geranium hybrids, are admired for their stunning flowers and versatility. With a wide range of species and varieties available, geraniums can add a burst of color to your outdoor space and thrive in various climates.

Geraniums are not only visually appealing but also incredibly winter hardy. This makes them suitable for outdoor planters, ensuring they can withstand colder temperatures and harsh weather conditions. Whether you’re looking for low-maintenance ground cover or beautiful potted plants, geraniums are an ideal choice.

One of the standout features of geraniums is their ability to bloom for an extended period. From vibrant reds and pinks to soft purples and whites, these flowers will add a touch of elegance to your patio or garden. Their cheerful blooms make them a popular option for outdoor containers, attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

With their hardiness and beautiful flowers, geraniums are a fantastic addition to any outdoor space. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting your planting journey, these versatile plants will bring color and vibrancy to your patio or garden. Plant them in pots outdoors, and enjoy their beauty all season long.

Table: Geranium Varieties for Outdoor Planters

Variety	Flower Color	Plant Height	Special Features
Pink Penny	Pink	12-14 inches	Compact growth habit
Rozanne	Blue-purple	18-24 inches	Long blooming period
Orion	Deep blue	18 inches	Heat tolerance
Rocky Mountain White	White	12-14 inches	Thrives in full sun

As shown in the table above, there are various geranium varieties to choose from when selecting outdoor plants for your pots. Each variety offers its own unique colors, heights, and characteristics. Whether you prefer delicate pinks or bold blues, there’s a geranium variety to suit your taste.

When planting geraniums in outdoor containers, make sure to provide them with well-draining soil and ample sunlight. Regular watering and occasional fertilization will help these beautiful plants thrive. With proper care, your geraniums can become a stunning focal point in your outdoor space.

So, why wait? Add a touch of natural beauty to your patio or garden with geraniums. These outdoor potted plants will not only brighten up your space but also withstand the elements, ensuring long-lasting beauty and enjoyment.

Box Tree

When it comes to selecting plants for outdoor containers, the box tree (Buxus) is a timeless choice. Despite concerns of the box tree caterpillar, this evergreen plant remains a classic feature in gardens. Its tolerance to pruning allows for creative topiaries, making it a stunning addition to any outdoor space.

The box tree is not only visually appealing but also highly durable. It can withstand various weather conditions, making it a hardy plant for outdoor containers. Whether you have a small patio or a spacious garden, the box tree can thrive in pots of different sizes, providing year-round greenery.

One of the advantages of the box tree is its versatility. It can be easily shaped to fit your desired aesthetic, whether you prefer neat hedges or intricate topiary designs. Additionally, the box tree’s dense foliage offers privacy and acts as a natural barrier, making it an excellent choice for creating boundaries within your outdoor space.

Advantages of Box Tree for Outdoor Containers	Considerations for Box Tree in Outdoor Containers
Tolerant to pruning and shaping Can thrive in various weather conditions Provides year-round greenery Offers privacy and acts as a natural barrier	Requires regular watering May attract box tree caterpillars Susceptible to certain diseases Needs well-draining soil

Incorporating the box tree into your outdoor containers can add an elegant touch and enhance the overall aesthetic of your garden. With proper care and maintenance, this hardy plant will continue to thrive, providing beauty and greenery for years to come.

Remember to position the box tree in an area that receives adequate sunlight and choose a well-draining potting mix to ensure its optimal growth. By selecting the box tree for your outdoor containers, you can create a welcoming and visually appealing outdoor space.

Lavender: The Perfect Container Gardening Plant for Outdoor Pots

When it comes to container gardening, choosing the right plants is essential for creating an attractive and thriving outdoor space. One plant that stands out for its beauty and versatility is lavender. With its vibrant purple flowers and delightful fragrance, lavender is a popular choice for outdoor pots. Not only does it add a pop of color to your garden, but it also attracts beneficial insects like bees and butterflies.

Lavender is a hardy plant that can withstand a variety of weather conditions, making it ideal for outdoor containers. It thrives in full sun and well-draining soil, making it perfect for hot and dry climates. In fact, lavender is known for its ability to withstand temperatures as low as -15°C, making it a reliable choice for colder regions as well.

“Lavender is not only a beautiful addition to any garden, but it also has many practical uses,” says gardening expert Jane Smith. “Its aromatic scent can help promote relaxation and improve sleep, and the dried flowers can be used in potpourri or sachets.”

When selecting lavender for your outdoor pots, be sure to choose a variety that is suitable for container gardening. English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) and French lavender (Lavandula dentata) are popular choices due to their compact size and ability to thrive in pots. Remember to provide adequate drainage and water your lavender sparingly to prevent root rot. With proper care, your lavender plants will flourish and bring beauty and fragrance to your outdoor space year after year.

“Lavender is not only a beautiful addition to any garden, but it also has many practical uses,” says gardening expert Jane Smith.

Lavender Varieties	Plant Height	Hardiness
English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)	12-24 inches	Hardy to -15°C
French Lavender (Lavandula dentata)	12-36 inches	Hardy to -10°C
Pink Lavender (Lavandula stoechas)	18-30 inches	Hardy to -5°C

With its stunning flowers, delightful fragrance, and adaptability to various climates, lavender is truly a standout plant for outdoor pots. Whether you’re a beginner gardener or a seasoned expert, adding lavender to your container garden will surely enhance your outdoor space and provide you with years of beauty and enjoyment.

Dwarf Mountain Pine: The Perfect Outdoor Planter Idea

If you’re looking for an outdoor planter idea that adds charm and beauty to your patio, look no further than the Dwarf Mountain Pine. With its unique dwarfed size and impressive appearance, this plant is sure to make a statement in any garden.

The Dwarf Mountain Pine, scientifically known as Pinus mugo var. pumilio, is a hardy and easy-to-care-for plant. It reaches a maximum height of 1.5m, making it perfect for smaller outdoor containers. Its evergreen needles and compact shape create a visually appealing focal point in your outdoor space.

Not only is the Dwarf Mountain Pine aesthetically pleasing, but it is also incredibly tough. It can withstand harsh weather conditions, including cold temperatures, strong winds, and even drought. This makes it an ideal choice for patio planters, as it will maintain its beauty and resilience throughout the seasons.

With the Dwarf Mountain Pine as your outdoor planter centerpiece, you can create a stunning display that will impress your guests and provide a sense of tranquility in your patio area. The contrast of the vibrant green needles against the backdrop of your outdoor space will capture attention and elevate the overall aesthetics of your garden.

So, if you’re searching for the best plants for patio planters, don’t overlook the Dwarf Mountain Pine. Its unique size, hardiness, and visual appeal make it an excellent choice for any outdoor space. Embrace this outdoor planter idea and transform your patio into an oasis of beauty and serenity.

Best Plants for Planters Outside: Lemon Balm

When it comes to selecting the perfect plants for your outdoor planters, lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is an excellent choice. Not only does it add a touch of freshness and beauty to your patio or garden, but it also offers numerous benefits for both yourself and your outdoor space.

The Benefits of Lemon Balm

One of the standout features of lemon balm is its delightful lemony fragrance, which fills the air with a refreshing aroma. This herb is known for its calming properties and is often used in aromatherapy to relieve stress and anxiety. So, having lemon balm in your outdoor planters can create a soothing and tranquil environment for you to unwind and relax.

Lemon balm is also a natural insect repellent, making it a great addition to your patio. Its strong scent helps to keep pesky insects at bay, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor space without the annoyance of buzzing bugs. Additionally, lemon balm is a hardy plant that can withstand various weather conditions, including winter frost.

How to Grow Lemon Balm in Planters

Growing lemon balm in planters is relatively easy. Start by choosing a well-draining container and filling it with nutrient-rich soil. Plant your lemon balm seeds or seedlings, ensuring they receive ample sunlight and regular watering. Lemon balm thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.

To promote healthy growth, it is advisable to prune your lemon balm regularly. This helps to maintain its shape and encourages the production of fresh foliage. Remember to water your lemon balm regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.

With its aromatic scent, insect-repelling qualities, and easy maintenance, lemon balm is a fantastic choice for patio planters. Enjoy the beauty and benefits of this versatile herb in your outdoor space.

Holly: Stunning Potted Plants for Outdoor Beauty

When it comes to adding a touch of elegance and charm to your outdoor space, holly plants are an excellent choice. These evergreen beauties not only provide year-round interest but also showcase striking red berries and uniquely-shaped leaves. Whether you’re looking to create a festive holiday display or enhance your garden’s visual appeal, holly plants are the perfect addition to your outdoor pots.

One of the standout features of holly plants is their vibrant red berries, which add a pop of color during the winter months. These berries not only attract attention but also provide a valuable food source for birds. Additionally, holly leaves come in various shapes and sizes, ranging from spiky to smooth. This diversity adds visual interest to your outdoor pots.

Not only are holly plants aesthetically pleasing, but they are also extremely hardy and resilient. They can withstand harsh weather conditions, including frost and drought, making them ideal for outdoor pots. With minimal care and maintenance, holly plants will thrive and continue to enhance the beauty of your outdoor space.

So, if you’re looking to create a visually stunning outdoor display, consider adding holly plants to your collection of potted plants. Their striking red berries, unique leaves, and resilience make them an excellent choice for adding natural beauty to your outdoor pots.

Hydrangea: The Perfect Plant for Outdoor Containers

If you’re looking for a versatile and beautiful plant to add to your outdoor containers, look no further than the hydrangea. With its abundance of flowers and variety of colors, the hydrangea is a popular choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. Not only is it visually stunning, but it is also winter hardy, making it an excellent choice for outdoor planters.

One of the great things about hydrangeas is their ability to adapt to different conditions. They can thrive in both sun and shade, making them suitable for a variety of outdoor spaces. Whether you have a sunny patio or a shaded corner of your garden, the hydrangea is sure to brighten up the area with its vibrant blooms.

Another benefit of growing hydrangeas in outdoor containers is their long-lasting beauty. The dried flowers can be used for home decoration, adding a touch of elegance to your living space. Plus, with proper care and maintenance, hydrangeas can continue to bloom year after year, giving you a lasting source of beauty in your garden.

Table: Hydrangea Varieties and Their Colors

Variety	Color
Endless Summer	Pink or blue, depending on soil pH
Annabelle	White
Nikko Blue	Blue
PeeGee	White

When it comes to caring for hydrangeas in outdoor containers, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First, make sure your container has proper drainage to prevent waterlogged roots. Hydrangeas like consistently moist soil, but they don’t like to sit in standing water. Second, be mindful of the amount of sunlight your hydrangeas receive. Too much direct sunlight can cause the blooms to fade, so it’s best to place them in a spot that gets partial shade during the hottest parts of the day.

With their stunning flowers, variety of colors, and winter hardiness, hydrangeas are the perfect choice for outdoor containers. Whether you’re looking to add a pop of color to your patio or brighten up a shaded corner of your garden, the hydrangea won’t disappoint. So go ahead and plant some hydrangeas in your outdoor containers and enjoy their beauty all season long.

Korean Lilac: A Fragrant and Hardy Plant for Outdoor Planters

When it comes to selecting the perfect plant for your outdoor planters, the Korean Lilac (Syringa meyeri) is an excellent choice. This beautiful plant showcases stunning purple and pink flowers that release a delicate fragrance, adding a touch of elegance to your outdoor space. Not only is it visually appealing, but it is also a hardy plant, making it ideal for withstanding various weather conditions.

With a maximum height of 1.5m, the Korean Lilac is a compact shrub that fits perfectly in outdoor planters. Its vibrant flowers and compact size make it an attractive option for those looking to create a focal point or add dimension to their outdoor design. Whether you have a patio, balcony, or garden, the Korean Lilac is versatile enough to thrive in various settings.

One of the standout features of the Korean Lilac is its ability to withstand cold temperatures. This hardy plant can tolerate temperatures as low as -15°C, making it suitable for planting in regions with harsh winters. So even if snow blankets your outdoor space, you can still enjoy the beauty and fragrance of the Korean Lilac.

Korean Lilac	Details
Blooms	Purple and pink flowers
Fragrance	Delicate and pleasant
Height	Up to 1.5m
Hardiness	Tolerates temperatures as low as -15°C

Adding the Korean Lilac to your outdoor planters not only brings visual appeal and fragrance but also attracts beneficial pollinators such as butterflies and bees. Its blossoms provide a valuable source of nectar, creating a harmonious environment for both plants and wildlife. This makes the Korean Lilac a great choice for those wanting to foster biodiversity in their outdoor spaces.

So, if you’re looking for a fragrant and hardy plant to enhance your outdoor planters, consider the Korean Lilac. Its stunning flowers, compact size, and ability to withstand cold temperatures make it a perfect addition to any garden or patio. Create a captivating outdoor oasis with the beauty and fragrance of the Korean Lilac.

Japanese Spindle

If you’re looking for a visually striking plant that can thrive in container gardens, look no further than the Japanese spindle tree (Euonymus japonicus). With its evergreen foliage and ornamental appeal, it’s a perfect choice for adding a touch of elegance to your outdoor space.

The Japanese spindle tree is known for its glossy, green leaves that create a lush and vibrant look. Its compact size makes it ideal for container gardening, as it can be easily placed on patios, decks, or balconies. Whether you have a small urban garden or limited space, this versatile plant can bring beauty and charm to any setting.

This hardy plant is also frost-resistant, allowing it to withstand colder temperatures and remain evergreen throughout the year. It requires minimal maintenance and can tolerate a range of soil conditions, making it suitable for both novice and experienced gardeners. Whether you’re a busy professional or simply want a low-maintenance addition to your garden, the Japanese spindle tree is an excellent choice.

The Japanese spindle tree’s evergreen foliage and compact size make it a perfect choice for container gardening.

Benefits of the Japanese Spindle Tree:

• Visually striking evergreen foliage
• Compact size suitable for container gardens
• Frost-resistant and hardy
• Low-maintenance and easy to care for
• Tolerant of a range of soil conditions

Plant Name	Foliage	Size	Maintenance	Hardiness
Japanese Spindle Tree	Glossy, green leaves	Compact, suitable for containers	Low maintenance	Frost-resistant

As with any plant, it’s important to provide the Japanese spindle tree with proper care. Ensure it has well-draining soil and receives adequate sunlight. Regular watering is essential, especially during dry periods. Pruning can be done to maintain the desired shape and size.

Overall, the Japanese spindle tree is a beautiful and versatile plant that can enhance any container garden. Its striking foliage, compact size, and low-maintenance nature make it an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced gardeners. Enjoy the beauty and elegance this plant brings to your outdoor space!

Checkerberry Shrubs

When it comes to selecting plants for your outdoor pots, checkerberry shrubs (Gaultheria procumbens) are an excellent choice. These shrubs are known for their decorative bright red berries that last throughout the winter, adding a pop of color to your outdoor space. The dark green foliage of the shrub further enhances its appeal, creating a visually engaging display.

Checkerberry shrubs are not only beautiful, but they are also easy to care for, making them a popular option for outdoor pots. They are winter hardy, meaning they can withstand harsh weather conditions, ensuring that your garden remains vibrant all year round. Whether you place them on your patio, in your garden, or along a walkway, these shrubs are sure to add a touch of natural beauty to any outdoor setting.

One of the advantages of checkerberry shrubs is their versatility. They can thrive in a variety of soil types, including acidic and well-drained soil, making them suitable for various gardening conditions. Additionally, these shrubs are relatively low-maintenance, requiring minimal pruning and watering.

Table: Comparison of Checkerberry Shrubs with Other Plants for Outdoor Pots

Aspect	Checkerberry Shrubs	Other Plants for Outdoor Pots
Winter Hardiness	✓	✓
Colorful Berries	✓	✗
Low-Maintenance	✓	✓
Versatility in Soil Types	✓	✗

As shown in the table above, checkerberry shrubs offer a unique combination of winter hardiness, colorful berries, low-maintenance requirements, and versatility in soil types. This makes them stand out among other plants for outdoor pots. So, whether you’re a gardening enthusiast or just starting to explore the world of plants, consider adding checkerberry shrubs to your collection for a beautiful and hassle-free outdoor display.

Checkerberry shrubs are an excellent choice for outdoor pots, providing attractive red berries that last throughout the winter. With their winter hardiness, low-maintenance requirements, and versatility, these shrubs are sure to enhance the beauty of any outdoor space.

Winter Heath: Adding Color to Your Outdoor Planters

When it comes to finding the perfect plant for your outdoor planters, look no further than winter heath (Erica carnea). With its vibrant blooms and cold-hardy nature, winter heath is an excellent choice for adding color and interest to your outdoor space during the winter months.

This beautiful plant flowers from December to April, brightening up even the dreariest of winter days. Its delicate pink, white, or purple flowers create a stunning contrast against the backdrop of snow or frost. Not only does winter heath add visual appeal to your planters, but it also attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies, ensuring a lively and thriving garden ecosystem.

Winter heath is a versatile plant that can be grown in a wide range of planters, from traditional pots to hanging baskets. Its compact size makes it an ideal choice for smaller outdoor spaces, such as balconies or patios. It can also be combined with other cold-hardy plants to create stunning winter displays.

Benefits of Winter Heath in Outdoor Planters

There are several reasons why winter heath is an excellent choice for your outdoor planters:

• Cold hardiness: Winter heath is highly tolerant of frost and cold temperatures, making it a reliable choice for winter plantings.
• Low maintenance: This hardy plant requires minimal care and attention, making it perfect for busy gardeners.
• Long flowering season: With its extended blooming period, winter heath provides color and interest in your planters throughout the winter months.
• Attracts pollinators: The flowers of winter heath are a valuable food source for bees and butterflies, helping to support local pollinator populations.

“Winter heath adds a burst of color to my outdoor planters during the winter. Its vibrant blooms brighten up the garden and attract pollinators, even in the coldest months.” – Garden enthusiast

Creating Beautiful Winter Displays

Combine winter heath with other cold-hardy plants like holly, dwarf mountain pine, or lavender to create visually stunning and diverse winter displays. Pairing winter heath with plants that have different foliage colors and textures adds depth and interest to your planters.

Plant	Height	Flower Color	Blooming Season
Winter Heath	20-30 cm	Pink, White, Purple	December to April
Holly	Varies depending on species	Red, Orange, Yellow	Winter
Dwarf Mountain Pine	Up to 1.5 m	N/A	N/A
Lavender	Varies depending on species	Purple, Blue, White	Summer

By incorporating winter heath into your outdoor planters, you can create a captivating winter landscape that defies the traditional notion of a dormant garden. Embrace the beauty and resilience of winter heath and enjoy a burst of color throughout the coldest season.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you’re looking for the best plants for patio planters or outdoor containers, these outdoor hardy varieties are the perfect choice. Not only can they withstand harsh weather conditions, but they also add beauty and vibrancy to your outdoor space.

From the striking Japanese Maple with its dark red leaves and autumnal effect, to the stunning Geraniums with their wide range of species and winter hardiness, these plants are sure to enhance the visual appeal of your garden.

Other notable options include the low-maintenance Box Tree, the aromatic Lavender with its insect-repelling properties, and the impressive Dwarf Mountain Pine. Don’t forget the Lemon Balm, Holly, Hydrangea, Korean Lilac, Japanese Spindle, Checkerberry Shrubs, and Winter Heath, all of which contribute to a colorful and thriving outdoor environment.

So, take your pick from these top plants for outdoor containers and patio planters, and create a garden that will impress throughout the year. Enjoy the beauty and resilience of these plants as they bring life and charm to your outdoor oasis.

Source Links

• https://www.perishablenews.com/floral/proven-winners-top-picks-for-2024/
• https://plantura.garden/uk/gardening-tips/plant-overviews/hardy-plants-for-pots
• https://www.greenhousegrower.com/crops/17-new-varieties-proven-winners-hopes-will-shine-in-2024/