Style three pots by creating a, balanced "trio" cluster, using varying heights (tall, medium, short) to create visual interest. Arrange them in a triangular, stepped, or linear formation, with taller pots in the back or center. Use a consistent color palette with different textures or shapes for a cohesive look.
Arrange With Purpose
Place the tallest planter in the back or center, with the shorter ones in the front or to the sides.
The Rule of Three is a design concept that's so easy to use you almost can't go wrong! Simply line up three of the same plants, in the same pot, to create a visually pleasing series. For example, a series of identical pots lined up on a stone wall creates a simple (yet satisfying!) repetition.
Tiered Flower Planters
While you can put tall plants in the top container row, choose short or trailing plants for the lower tiers. The best flowers for tiered flower pots include: Petunias. Hostas.
7 Container Gardening Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
Our recommendation for filling a raised bed
Herbs: Herbs are perfect for stackable planters because they don't require a lot of space and can thrive in smaller containers. You can grow favorites like basil, parsley, mint, and rosemary, allowing you to have fresh herbs at your fingertips for use in the kitchen.
Statement styling is where the rule of three truly shines. Grouping decorative pieces, each with a distinct form or finish, turns a flat surface into a thoughtfully designed space. The key to the rule of three is having contrast in scale and shape.
For permanent outdoor planters: Heavy base of gravel or rocks, then a mix of broken ceramic pieces and logs, topped with fabric and potting mix enriched with compost. For seasonal displays: Coarse wood chips, pinecones, and cardboard boxes crushed down, then fabric and potting mix.
You can have fun mixing colors, shapes and textures as long as they complement the overall look and feel you are trying to achieve. We love to create groupings with different sizes and complementary colors. We also like to work in odd numbers when grouping potted plants in one space.
Planted up with fuchsias, pelargoniums or your favourite summer bedding, it will form a cascading display of colourful blooms. It's lightweight frame makes it really easy to handle so you won't find it difficult to put together.
The most common mistakes with container plants involve improper watering (usually overwatering), using the wrong soil (like garden soil instead of potting mix), choosing pots without drainage holes or in the wrong size, and failing to fertilize, all stemming from the fact that containers offer a limited environment where nutrients, water, and air are quickly depleted or become waterlogged. These issues stress plants, leading to root rot, stunted growth, or wilting.
Stack planters for interest
For the top tiers, let cascading beauties like ivy or petunias tumble down in a wave of green. Then, on the lower levels, add some fuller plants like ferns or begonias for a touch of contrast.
An effective and affordable way of reducing the soil you need when filling large planters is by using lightweight pot fillers and lightening materials. These materials consist of foam peanuts, plastic bottles, and even crushed cans.