Common Plants Best Grown in Pots or Containers

When brainstorming the design of your garden, one of the most important things to consider is how plants will grow over time. Several species spread rapidly through self-seeding, stem nodes, or underground rhizomes, allowing them to quickly take up space if they aren’t kept in check. In some cases, this can be a good thing, especially if you’re looking for a ground cover for part of your yard. On the other hand, if they crowd out other desired species, then these quick growers become a nuisance.

English ivy

There’s something beautiful about old houses with English ivy (Hedera helix) climbing up the exterior. Despite its charm, you’ll likely regret planting this invasive species anywhere outside of a container. It’s an extremely fast, aggressive spreader that can quickly take over your garden with its dense growth. Best in a container.

Bee balm

Yes, I know. My favorite too. But, although it’s not an invasive species, it spreads aggressively with its underground rhizomes, often crowding out other desirable plants. To keep the pollinators and your garden happy, keep it in a pot in a sunny area of the yard. It prefers moist, well-drained potting soils and is easily grown in zones 4 through 9.

Periwinkle

You may have seen these lilac, phlox-like flowers being sold at your local garden center. Although common periwinkle (Vinca minor) may look delicate, it’s an aggressively spreading invasive species that can escape cultivation and choke out valuable native wildflowers. Rather than planting it in a bed or border, opt for a container that keeps its underground runners in check.

Butterfly bush

Butterfly bush (Buddleja davidii) is a gorgeous flowering perennial shrub that will attract both hummingbirds and butterflies to your yard with its dense clusters of tubular blooms. While no doubt beautiful, it has escaped cultivation and is now considered to be an invasive plant in several states. Better alternatives are the Buddleja Lo & Behold hybrids, which are mostly sterile and produce very few seeds. Otherwise, control its spread by keeping butterfly bush in a container and removing the flowers before they can seed. It’s hardy in zones 5 through 9 and grows well in full sun.

Spearmint

With its fresh scent and flavor, attractive green leaves, and easy growth, it almost seems like spearmint (Mentha spicata) would be the perfect ground cover. However, like many plants in the mint family, it spreads rapidly through its rhizomes and stems that can take root anywhere they touch the soil. You can grow this herb in a container indoors or keep it outdoors in zones 4 through 9. Plant spearmint in an organically rich potting mix and place the pot in an area of your yard with full sun or a sunny windowsill inside.

Source: House Digest©