Any suggestions for plants for front garden planters?

Question

I bought 2 wooden planters for my front garden.

Now I need help deciding what plants to use. I want colour & interesting foliage but no higher than 3 feet max. Any ideas?

Answer 1

I agree with the above planter guidelines! Ornamental grasses can be very hardy and make an interesting tall accent, but if you prefer more color variation, tall salvia, veronica, or Russian sage are good alternatives. As long as your summers aren't too cold, lilies and hibiscus are good showy flowers, and marigolds are tolerant of almost anything. Petunias are fantastic because they're forgiving, provide lots of color and a bit of fragrance, and the wave variety naturally "pour" over the side of a container for a lush look.

Answer 2

Portulaca or Moss Rose.

It is a low growing succulent that comes in many colors.

Answer 3

When making a planter, three types of plants are needed:  a spiky type one for the back, something medium height with rounded flower and/or growth habit in the center, and something that will drape over the front.

Considering that you need some plants that can stand up to moist/cool conditions, I suggest that you consider the following:

Purple Heliotrope in the center <grows to about 2 feet tall>

White Snapdragons in the rear...lots of varieties of them, I suggest one that grows to 3 feet, but as you cut back the spent spikes, more grow in a bushy habit.

Either petunias or verbena in the foreground.  It will dangle in front and also wend it's way around to fill in any bare spots.

Hope you find this helpful.  Good luck.