What Are The Best Plants For Containers

 

Container plants/gardening is a great way to grow plants, especially if you’re short on space or want to brighten up a patio, balcony or doorstep. But what are the best plants for containers? The key to success is choosing the right plants for your container conditions—sunlight, space and how much care you can give.

Whether you’re growing food, adding colour or creating a stylish display here are the best container plants.

What Are The Best Plants For Containers1. Herbs

Fresh at Your Fingertips

Herbs are a favourite for container gardening because they’re compact and culinary.

Top picks:

• Basil
• Mint
• Rosemary
• Thyme

Care tips:

• Use well draining soil
• Place in full sun
• Harvest regularly to encourage new growth

These herbs thrive on sunny windowsills, balconies or patios and are perfect for beginner gardeners.

2. Succulents

Stylish and Low Maintenance

Succulents are perfect for modern container gardens. They’re drought tolerant, come in unique shapes and colours and need very little care.

Great options:

• Echeveria
• Sedum
• Aeonium

Care tips:

• Use a cactus or succulent soil mix
• Provide bright indirect light
• Water sparingly – let the soil dry out completely between waterings

Succulents look great in shallow dishes, hanging pots or mixed arrangements.

3. Annuals

Instant Colour and Seasonal Fun

Annuals are the go-to plants for a colourful display that lasts all summer.

Top picks:

• Petunias
• Marigolds
• Geraniums

Care tips:

• Choose full sun locations
• Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
• Deadhead regularly to promote continued blooming

These flowers provide continuous colour and can be swapped out each year to refresh your display.

4. Vegetables

Yes you can grow your own food in containers! Vegetables are both decorative and edible making them a popular choice for urban gardeners.

Best:

• Tomatoes (cherry or dwarf varieties)
• Peppers
• Lettuce and salad greens

Care:

• Use large containers with good drainage
• Water and fertilise regularly
• Get at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily

Perfect for balconies, patios and even window boxes, container vegetables are a sustainable way to grow your own food.

5. Dwarf Trees and Shrubs

Add Height and Style

For a more permanent or architectural feature consider dwarf varieties of trees and shrubs.

Top:

• Dwarf citrus trees (like lemons or limes)
• Dwarf hydrangeas
• Dwarf conifers

Care:

• Use large containers
• Water consistently, especially in hot weather
• Provide full sun or partial shade depending on the variety

These plants add height and style, perfect as a focal point in container arrangements.

Final Thoughts: What Are The Best Plants For Containers?

The key to a beautiful container garden is choosing the right plants for your space and lifestyle. Whether you’re growing fragrant herbs, colourful flowers, sculptural succulents or homegrown veg, containers allow you to garden anywhere.

With a little planning and regular care your container garden will thrive through the seasons—bringing greenery, joy and life to any corner of your home.

For more advice/assistance, contact us today and get growing your container plants!