What’s Hot in Containers This Summer

One of my favorite colors is purple!

• Kara Smith of The Contained Gardener
• Summer Purples

This summer, I have been planting a more simple design plan. It has been fun using purple in this arrangement – but now you need to think – what color is purple??? There are pink purples (gomphrena) and blue purples (blue salvia) and frankly, I do not think the two different families of purple go well together but it can grow on me!

Here is a list of purples that are working well in pots in the heat

Annuals:
Gomphrena (Buddy and Gnome)
Blue Salvia
Lisianthus (watch over watering)
Vinca (there is some lilac and lavender)
Pentas
Neurembergia (Purple Robe)
Osteospernum

Perennials:
Scabiosa
Scaevola
Navajo Salvia
Angelonia
Calibrachoa – does best in morning sun only
Verbena
Heliotrope Blue (shade)
Lavender – low water

If you want to add another color – try choosing from one of these:

• See How These Colors Might “POP”

For more information on potted gardens in the desert, visit The Contained Gardener.

Have a question? Email Marylee.

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This article appears in May 17-23, 2012.