Implementing Green Drenching for Vibrant Summer Containers: The Perennial Advantage

• Keep your summer containers looking fantastic without the annual refresh expense.
• Discover the secret to lush, long-lasting container displays using perennials.
• Learn how choosing the right plants and smart care, including methods like green drenching, keeps pots thriving through the heat.
• Find out how to extend the life of your container plants by moving them into the garden.

Tired of watching your beautiful summer containers peak in June, only to languish and look weary by August? Many gardeners face the annual dilemma: investing in gorgeous annuals that provide instant impact but fade with the season’s end. What if you could create stunning container displays that not only last all summer but also offer texture, color, and vitality right through the heat, and even provide plants you can enjoy in your garden for years to come? It’s entirely possible by implementing green drenching in summer containers as part of a strategy centered around using resilient perennials. This approach saves money, reduces waste, and provides a dynamic display that evolves beautifully over the season.

Why Perennials Are Game-Changers for Summer Containers

Using perennials in containers was once an experiment for me, driven by a desire to offer a client more value than disposable annuals. The idea initially brought visions of plants that might flop or look sparse after a short bloom period. But by focusing on perennials with interesting foliage color and texture, and those that require minimal fuss, I discovered a richer, more sustainable way to fill pots.

The key is selecting varieties known for their reliable structure and attractive leaves, some of which also offer beautiful blooms that might last longer than typical annuals, or repeat throughout the season. And when the blooms fade, their foliage continues to contribute to the display.

My initial selections were cautious but successful. For sun-drenched spots, I chose plants like fountain grass, tickseed, and colorful sages. In the shade, I opted for the calming textures and colors of hostas, bleeding heart, and spotted deadnettle. I did initially use some annuals like alyssum and lobelia as ‘spillers’ to provide early interest while the perennials established, but quickly found the perennials grew so vigorously they soon filled the space beautifully.

By mid-summer, when many annual displays start to look tired, my perennial containers were fresh, vibrant, and full. The interplay of foliage and late-season blooms provided continuous interest. This longevity and sustained beauty are major advantages when you’re aiming for vibrant summer containers.

Keeping Containers Lush: Care and Implementing Green Drenching

Perennial containers proved surprisingly easier to care for than their annual counterparts. They generally required less frequent watering, which is a huge plus during hot summer months. They also demanded far less deadheading and tidying to maintain a clean look.

However, plants in containers, perennial or annual, are still growing in a limited volume of soil. They use up available nutrients relatively quickly, especially during peak growing season in summer. To ensure they remain lush, healthy, and vibrant, providing supplemental feeding is often necessary.

One effective method for delivering nutrients directly to the plant’s roots and foliage is implementing green drenching in summer containers. This technique involves applying a liquid fertilizer, often one that is rich in nitrogen or micronutrients, to the soil and sometimes the foliage. This provides a quick boost of readily available nutrients, which can be particularly beneficial during periods of rapid growth or stress from heat. Using a balanced liquid feed or an organic “green” solution like compost tea or liquid seaweed extract ensures plants have the fuel they need to maintain vigorous growth and strong foliage color throughout the summer heat. While perennials are generally more resilient, a timely “green drench” can help them shrug off stress and continue to look their best, contributing to a truly vibrant summer display.

Remember, the specific needs depend on the plant species. Always follow package instructions for liquid fertilizers and avoid over-fertilizing, which can harm plants. Pairing smart plant selection with good care practices, including appropriate watering and nutrient supply through methods like green drenching when needed, is key to successful, long-lasting container gardens.

Inspiring Plant Combinations for Summer Containers

Choosing the right perennials is crucial for success. Consider their size, growth habit, and aesthetic appeal through the season, prioritizing foliage and texture.

Planting Ideas for Shade

Shady spots offer an opportunity to play with cool colors and intricate textures. Here are some stellar performers:

• ‘Dark Star’ Coleus
  • Scientific Name: Solenostemon scutellarioides ‘Dark Star’
  • Common Name: Coleus ‘Dark Star’
  • Zone: 11 (Often grown as an annual elsewhere)
  • Light: Partial to Full Shade
  • Water: Consistently moist but well-drained
• Corydalis
  • Scientific Name: Corydalis lutea
  • Common Name: Yellow Fumitory
  • Zone: 5–8
  • Light: Partial to Full Shade
  • Water: Moist, well-drained soil
• ‘Aureola’ Japanese Forest Grass
  • Scientific Name: Hakonechloa macra ‘Aureola’
  • Common Name: Japanese Forest Grass ‘Aureola’
  • Zone: 5–9
  • Light: Partial Shade
  • Water: Consistently moist soil
• White Fringed Bleeding Heart
  • Scientific Name: Dicentra eximia ‘Alba’
  • Common Name: White Fringed Bleeding Heart ‘Alba’
  • Zone: 4–8
  • Light: Partial Shade to Full Shade
  • Water: Moist, well-drained soil
• ‘Blue Moon’ Hosta
  • Scientific Name: Hosta ‘Blue Moon’
  • Common Name: Hosta ‘Blue Moon’
  • Zone: 3–8
  • Light: Partial Shade to Full Shade
  • Water: Consistently moist soil
• ‘Ginko Craig’ Hosta
  • Scientific Name: Hosta ‘Ginko Craig’
  • Common Name: Hosta ‘Ginko Craig’
  • Zone: 3–8
  • Light: Partial Shade to Full Shade
  • Water: Consistently moist soil
• ‘White Nancy’ Spotted Deadnettle
  • Scientific Name: Lamium maculatum ‘White Nancy’
  • Common Name: Spotted Deadnettle ‘White Nancy’
  • Zone: 4–8
  • Light: Partial to Full Shade
  • Water: Prefers consistent moisture but tolerates some dryness
• Spreading Bellflower
  • Scientific Name: Campanula poscharskyana
  • Common Name: Serbian Bellflower
  • Zone: 4–7
  • Light: Full Sun to Partial Shade
  • Water: Average, well-drained soil (adaptable)
• ‘King of Hearts’ Bleeding Heart
  • Scientific Name: Dicentra ‘King of Hearts’
  • Common Name: Bleeding Heart ‘King of Hearts’
  • Zone: 4–8
  • Light: Partial Shade to Full Shade
  • Water: Moist, well-drained soil
• ‘Majesté’ Lungwort
  • Scientific Name: Pulmonaria ‘Majesté’
  • Common Name: Lungwort ‘Majesté’
  • Zone: 5–8
  • Light: Partial to Full Shade
  • Water: Consistently moist soil
• ‘Pink Pewter’ Spotted Deadnettle
  • Scientific Name: Lamium maculatum ‘Pink Pewter’
  • Common Name: Spotted Deadnettle ‘Pink Pewter’
  • Zone: 4–8
  • Light: Partial to Full Shade
  • Water: Prefers consistent moisture but tolerates some dryness

blue pot with green and purple foliage plants and yellow flowers

green pot with white and purple flowers

terra cotta pot with pink flowers

Planting Ideas for Sun

Sun-loving perennials bring structure, color, and heat tolerance to your containers.

• Golden Variegated Sage
  • Scientific Name: Salvia officinalis ‘Icterina’
  • Common Name: Golden Variegated Sage
  • Zone: 5–8
  • Light: Full Sun
  • Water: Average to dry, well-drained soil
• ‘Limelight’ Licorice Plant
  • Scientific Name: Helichrysum petiolare ‘Limelight’
  • Common Name: Licorice Plant ‘Limelight’
  • Zone: 10–11 (Often grown as an annual elsewhere)
  • Light: Full Sun to Partial Shade
  • Water: Average, well-drained soil, drought tolerant once established
• ‘Moonbeam’ Coreopsis
  • Scientific Name: Coreopsis ‘Moonbeam’
  • Common Name: Tickseed ‘Moonbeam’
  • Zone: 3–8
  • Light: Full Sun
  • Water: Average to dry, well-drained soil
• ‘Vera Jameson’ Sedum
  • Scientific Name: Sedum ‘Vera Jameson’
  • Common Name: Sedum ‘Vera Jameson’
  • Zone: 4–9
  • Light: Full Sun
  • Water: Dry to average, well-drained soil, drought tolerant
• ‘Blackie’ Sweet Potato Vine
  • Scientific Name: Ipomoea batatas ‘Blackie’
  • Common Name: Sweet Potato Vine ‘Blackie’
  • Zone: 9–11 (Often grown as an annual elsewhere)
  • Light: Full Sun
  • Water: Consistently moist soil
• Tricolor Sage
  • Scientific Name: Salvia officinalis ‘Tricolor’
  • Common Name: Tricolor Sage
  • Zone: 5–8
  • Light: Full Sun
  • Water: Average to dry, well-drained soil
• White Alyssum
  • Scientific Name: Lobularia maritima cv.
  • Common Name: Sweet Alyssum
  • Zone: Annual
  • Light: Full Sun to Partial Shade
  • Water: Consistently moist soil

tan pot with foliage plants and yellow flowers

terra cotta pot with purple and variegated foliage plants

terra cotta pot full of plants with colorful foliage

More Perennials That Shine in Pots

Here are additional perennial options that perform well in containers, offering diverse textures and colors:

• Blue Oat Grass
  • Scientific Name: Helictotrichon semper-virens
  • Common Name: Blue Oat Grass
  • Zone: 4–9
  • Light: Full Sun
  • Water: Average to dry, well-drained soil
• Bowles’ Golden Sedge
  • Scientific Name: Carex elata ‘Aurea’
  • Common Name: Bowles’ Golden Sedge
  • Zone: 5–9
  • Light: Full Sun to Partial Shade
  • Water: Consistently moist to wet soil
• Bronze Fennel
  • Scientific Name: Foeniculum vulgare ‘Purpureum’
  • Common Name: Bronze Fennel
  • Zone: 4–9 (May be grown as annual in colder zones)
  • Light: Full Sun
  • Water: Average, well-drained soil
• Lavenders
  • Scientific Name: Lavandula spp. and cvs.
  • Common Name: Lavender
  • Zone: 5–10 (Varies by species)
  • Light: Full Sun
  • Water: Dry to average, well-drained soil
• Michaelmas Daisy
  • Scientific Name: Aster novi-belgii ‘Professor Anton Kippenberg’
  • Common Name: Michaelmas Daisy ‘Professor Anton Kippenberg’
  • Zone: 4–8
  • Light: Full Sun
  • Water: Average, well-drained soil
• Short Fountain Grasses
  • Scientific Name: Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Moudry’, ‘Little Bunny’, and ‘Hameln’
  • Common Name: Fountain Grass
  • Zone: 6–9
  • Light: Full Sun
  • Water: Average, well-drained soil, drought tolerant once established
• Snow in Summer
  • Scientific Name: Cerastium tomentosum and cvs.
  • Common Name: Snow in Summer
  • Zone: 3–7
  • Light: Full Sun
  • Water: Dry to average, well-drained soil
• Spurges
  • Scientific Name: Euphorbia spp. and cvs.
  • Common Name: Spurge
  • Zone: 4–11 (Varies by species)
  • Light: Full Sun to Partial Shade (Varies)
  • Water: Dry to average, well-drained soil (Drought tolerant)
• Wormwoods
  • Scientific Name: Artemisia spp. and cvs.
  • Common Name: Wormwood
  • Zone: 3–9 (Varies by species)
  • Light: Full Sun
  • Water: Dry, well-drained soil
• American Maidenhair Fern
  • Scientific Name: Adiantum pedatum
  • Common Name: Northern Maidenhair Fern
  • Zone: 3–8
  • Light: Full Shade to Partial Shade
  • Water: Consistently moist, well-drained soil
• Barrenworts
  • Scientific Name: Epimedium spp. and cvs.
  • Common Name: Barrenwort, Epimedium
  • Zone: 4–9
  • Light: Partial Shade to Full Shade
  • Water: Average to dry, well-drained soil
• European Wild Ginger
  • Scientific Name: Asarum europaeum
  • Common Name: European Wild Ginger
  • Zone: 4–8
  • Light: Full Shade to Partial Shade
  • Water: Moist, well-drained soil
• Foam Flowers
  • Scientific Name: Tiarella spp. and cvs.
  • Common Name: Foam Flower
  • Zone: 3–9
  • Light: Partial Shade to Full Shade
  • Water: Consistently moist, well-drained soil
• Lady’s Mantle
  • Scientific Name: Alchemilla mollis
  • Common Name: Lady’s Mantle
  • Zone: 4–7
  • Light: Full Sun to Partial Shade
  • Water: Average, well-drained soil
• Siberian Buglosses
  • Scientific Name: Brunnera macrophylla cvs.
  • Common Name: Siberian Bugloss
  • Zone: 3–7
  • Light: Partial Shade to Full Shade
  • Water: Consistently moist, well-drained soil

Blue oat grass with spiky blue-green foliage in a pot

Purple lavender spikes blooming in a terracotta pot

Short fountain grasses with arching seed heads in pots

White flowered groundcover 'Snow in summer' spilling from a pot

Chartreuse euphorbia foliage in a container

Silvery-leaved wormwood spilling from a pot

Foam flower with delicate white blooms in a shade container

Lady's mantle with chartreuse foliage holding water droplets

Siberian bugloss with large variegated leaves in a pot

Design Tips for Perennial Containers

Designing with perennials offers unique opportunities to create dynamic, evolving displays.

Design Tips

• Choose a Thriller, Filler, Spiller: Start with a dominant plant (Thriller) for height or drama, then add surrounding plants (Fillers) to create mass and texture, and finally plants that trail over the edge (Spillers) for softness.
• Focus on Foliage: Since perennial bloom times vary, prioritize plants with interesting leaf color, shape, or texture. Foliage provides the longest season of interest.
• Consider Mature Size: Research the ultimate size of your chosen perennials to avoid overcrowding the container as the season progresses.
• Balance Texture and Color: Combine plants with contrasting textures (e.g., fine grass blades with broad hosta leaves) and colors (e.g., dark coleus with bright coreopsis) for visual appeal.

A Second Life in the Garden

One of the most rewarding aspects of using perennials in containers is their potential for reuse. As summer wanes and fall approaches, these plants can be transitioned into your garden beds. This not only frees up your containers for winter displays or storage but also enriches your landscape with established plants.

I found this process incredibly fulfilling. In October, even though the containers still looked good, I carefully transplanted the perennials into empty spots in the garden. Many had grown significantly, providing an opportunity to divide them, essentially getting multiple new plants from the original container inhabitants.

Treating them like new perennial plantings – watering them in well and providing protective mulch after the ground freezes – helps ensure they establish successfully and return year after year in the garden. This cycle of using perennials first in containers for a dynamic seasonal display and then integrating them into the permanent landscape is garden synergy at its finest, offering beauty and value that lasts far beyond a single summer.

Conclusion

Creating vibrant summer containers doesn’t have to mean a costly annual replacement. By selecting the right perennials and providing consistent care, including strategies like implementing green drenching in summer containers to keep foliage lush, you can achieve stunning, long-lasting displays that evolve and offer interest throughout the season. Plus, you gain established plants to enhance your garden beds for years to come. It’s a smart, sustainable, and beautiful way to garden.

What are your favorite perennials to use in containers? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below! If you found this article helpful, please share it with fellow gardeners. Explore more content on Thelittle.garden for inspiration and advice on making your garden thrive.