I love this simple flower pot arrangement tip. It’s simple. It distills the artistry to three types of plants/flowers:
- Thrillers,
- Filler, and
- Spiller
The Essential Trio Explained
- Thriller: This is your showstopper plant, meant to draw attention and act as the centerpiece of your container. Placed in the middle or at the back, thrillers are typically tall, striking, and dramatic. They might be vibrant tulips in small pots or towering bamboo in larger ones, providing height and visual appeal.
- Filler: Fillers are the harmonizers of the plant world. These plants fill out the body of your container, surrounding the thriller and adding depth and volume. A good approach is a mix of upright plants at the back and varied textures in the middle to knit the composition together seamlessly.
- Spiller: As the name suggests, spillers cascade over the sides of the container, adding a graceful, overflowing effect. These plants give the arrangement a lush, abundant look.
Watch this concept in action:
Crafting the Perfect Container
Okay, just because you have a handle on the three types doesn’t mean you’re done. You still must exercise some discretion when choosing the actual thriller, filler and spiller plants. Choose plants that not only complement each other in color but also in form, creating a dynamic yet harmonious display.
Seasonal Shifts and Plant Choices
Another good tip is to choose plants that thrive in the current season. For early spring, cool-temperature loving plants like snowdrops or bergenias. Also, pick colors that match the container and stick to a few complementary shades for a cohesive look. For example, pairing Skimmia japonica with its pink buds and white flowers, alongside purple-leaved heuchera and cerise hyacinths, creates a stunning springtime display.
Transitioning Through Seasons
The beauty of the thriller, filler, spiller method is its flexibility. As seasons change, so can your container garden. One way to mix it up with the changing seasons is to keep the thriller plant and rotate the fillers and spillers according to the season’s best offerings. This way, your container garden remains fresh and exciting throughout the year.
Creating Your Container Garden
Start your container garden adventure by visiting a local garden center this spring. Select a variety of plants that offer interesting textures, structures, and colors.
