Entering the world of container gardening is akin to stepping into an artist’s studio—a realm where creativity blossoms alongside the beauty of nature. As the gardening season approaches, many of us experience that familiar tingle of excitement at the sight of garden centers filled to the brim with vibrant plants, and yet, before filling our carts to the brim, it is necessary to pause and reflect. “What’s your plan for this year’s seasonal pots?” This question set the stage for my enlightening conversation with David Mattern, a horticulturist at Chanticleer Garden in Pennsylvania, renowned for his innovative approach to container design.
The Empty Pot Philosophy
David has cultivated his gardening expertise over the past ten years at Chanticleer, a veritable masterpiece of landscaped beauty and creativity. In our discussion, he shares an intriguing insight: the process of container design truly begins long before the plants are chosen. “Late winter is the beginning of my container-design process,” he explains. During this reflective time, he sets out his empty containers to visualize how they will influence the overall garden space. The act of placing these empty pots serves two purposes: it aids in determining their ideal location and gauges their aesthetic impact on the surrounding landscape.
Emphasizing the benefits of this approach, he playfully notes that “Containers that are empty are a lot lighter,” allowing for easy rearrangement. The strategic placement of these containers creates an initial dialogue with the environment, contributing to the desired mood and intent within the garden.
Defining Intentions
When situating your containers, David encourages gardeners to consider their intent. Whether you seek to create an intimate nook, accentuate a transition between garden spaces, or simply draw attention to a stunning feature, the context in which your containers are placed can fundamentally change the dynamic of your garden. For instance, a cluster of pots can denote a threshold, while a single, large container can serve as a focal point against a long view.
As he illustrates, the shapes, sizes, and even the materials of your chosen containers will affect their visual importance. David advises mixing various shapes to create a playful contrast that draws the eye throughout the garden.
The Art of Placement and Shape
The artistry in container gardening extends beyond plant choice—it resides in the pot itself. “Tall ones are very dramatic and upright,” David states, while “low, wide things you can really change up from year to year.” He highlights how these decisions are subjective; selecting shapes that captivate you is key to creating an engaging container display.
Glazes can also have a dramatic effect. “I call them exclamation points in the garden,” he proclaims, advocating for strong glazes and architectural shapes that add a sense of depth and interest. This is particularly true during spring, where glazed containers may stand out against the emerging foliage, while terracotta pots can act as a gentle backdrop, allowing those bold colors to shine.
Crafting with a Diverse Plant Palette
When it comes to plant selection for containers, David espouses variety. “Don’t limit yourself,” he advises. Using a mix of perennials, annuals, and even small trees or shrubs can not only elevate the visual appeal of your containers but also create a budget-friendly strategy for gardeners. By initially planting perennials in containers, gardeners can enjoy their beauty in the short term before transitioning them into the garden for long-term growth.
He encourages the incorporation of diverse plants and emphasizes the joy of layering textures and colors. “Create a little landscape in a low bowl or allow big tall plants to emerge from a wide container,” he suggests, partaking in the tactile and visual excitement of gardening.
Seasonal Inspiration
As we delved deeper into container gardening, the conversation turned to seasonal inspirations. David and his team at Chanticleer shift their plantings to reflect the changing seasons, transforming their displays to keep pace with the garden’s natural rhythm. “The goal is to have it like, ‘Oh, it’s just happening all on its own, isn’t it?’” he emphasizes, showcasing the beauty of a gradually evolving garden.
From vibrant spring bulbs to lush summer annuals, the seamless transition between seasons allows for a dynamic gardening experience, where flowers bloom, and colors transform, creating a captivating tapestry.
Embracing Experimentation
In all aspects of gardening, experimentation is crucial. David urges gardeners to embrace the unexpected. “Don’t overthink it. Have fun with what you’re seeing and what you’re doing,” he encourages. By nurturing a playful curiosity and taking note of successful combinations, gardeners may discover new favorites year after year.
While shopping for plants, particularly at the start of the season, he suggests leading with a key plant as the focus. From that foundation, selecting complementary plants to enhance colors, textures, and contrasts will lead to cohesive container gardens boasting character and depth.
Conclusion: The Journey of Container Gardening
David Mattern’s insights shed light on the thoughtful preparation and creativity that define the art of container gardening. By taking the time to plan placements, understand your intentions, and embrace a diverse range of plants, you can craft stunning vignettes that bring joy and inspiration during your gardening journey. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or a newcomer, the engaging world of container gardening invites you to explore, play, and create.
So as the gardening season beckons, resist the temptation to merely grab what catches your eye. Instead, take a moment to embrace the possibilities that await in creating your seasonal pots—one stunning container at a time.
