The South Florida climate is great for growing a wide range of native and exotic plants in-ground and in pots. However, the state does experience occasional variations in weather that can result in a cold snap. The chill typically doesn’t last long, but can quickly kill potted plants of any kind. There are measures that individuals can take to minimize damage and protect their plants.

Bring Them Indoors

Bringing potted plants indoors is the easiest way to preserve greenery. Being able to do so is dependent on the space inside the home to do so and the size of the pot. Large pots aren’t easily relocated if they’re not positioned on a mobile plant cart. If bringing the plants in the home isn’t an option, the garage or a greenhouse are convenient alternatives.

Covers

There are numerous commercially available coverings that can be placed over plants. A cardboard box works equally well. Gardeners can also use newspaper to cover them. Secure the newspaper to the pot in some way to prevent it from blowing away due to breezes. Preventative measures should be applied before nightfall to trap warmth under the covering.

A sheet, blanket, tarp or similar item can be draped over plants to protect them from the cold. Just be sure the plant can handle the weight of the material. Coolers, baskets and similar containers with a solid bottom can be placed over plants for protection. Don’t use plastic sheeting – it causes condensation on leaves that can freeze.

Grouping

It’s beneficial to group smaller pots together before covering. Make sure the covering goes all the way to the ground. If the cold is an overnight occurrence, uncover plants as soon as the air temperature warms. If the chill is longer lasting, it’s important not to leave plants covered for more than a maximum of 3 days.

RCH Landscaping is a full-service landscape company based in Boca Raton, Florida. We design, install and maintain Commercial and Residential landscapes all around Boca Raton, Delray Beach, and The Palm Beach areas. Our team of highly skilled landscape technicians has an undisputed track record of creating and maintaining beautiful commercial and residential landscapes all over South Florida.

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Greenery and blooms have a positive effect on the mental and physical health of people. Studies have demonstrated that even small green spaces indoors or outside can relieve stress, aid in alleviating depression, benefit cognitive function, and improve air quality.

It’s possible for anyone to enjoy the benefits of better wellbeing with container-grown plants, even if they live in a small apartment. Container gardening is simply the practice of growing plants in pots rather than planting them directly in the ground.

Container Types

Individuals can place their plants in pots of any size and material. Consider traditional clay pots, along with half barrels, tubs, metal containers and freestanding flower boxes. A raised bed is also an option for more generous spaces. It all depends on the space available.

Plastic containers are a good option, as they’re lightweight and easy for a single person to manage. Make sure the containers have holes in the bottom for adequate drainage. Pots should be large enough to hold the root ball of the plant and allow for growth.

Soil

Use good quality potting soil or a combination of potting soil and compost. Potting soil provides a light and fluffy mix that’s best for pots. Raised beds require a slightly heavier mix.

Placement

Containers can be placed literally anywhere it will fit encompassing indoors, on patios, stairways, balconies, decks, and terraces. Large containers can rest on the ground, small containers can be placed on pedestals, while other types of containers can be hung from a porch or deck, or affixed to a garage or outbuilding. Be mindful of weight when planting on balconies.

Types of Plants

Flowers provide a splash of bright and welcoming color. Flowering plants that do well in containers include petunias, geraniums, impatiens, and begonias. Individuals can also grow vegetables and herbs in containers. Onions, peppers, squash, lettuce, and tomatoes grow well in containers. Those that want to maintain an herb garden can try basil, mint, rosemary and thyme. Vertical and draping plants can be combined in a single container if desired. Consider the water and sun requirements of the plants.

RCH Landscaping is a full-service landscape company based in Boca Raton, Florida. We design, install and maintain Commercial and Residential landscapes all around Boca Raton, Delray Beach, and The Palm Beach areas. Our team of highly skilled landscape technicians has an undisputed track record of creating and maintaining beautiful commercial and residential landscapes all over South Florida.

Contact RCH Landscaping Today for a Free Estimate

561-779-9760

Any pool area can benefit from plants, but placing them in pots is much preferable to planting them in the ground. Depending on the species, they may have far-reaching roots that can damage the pool and the surrounding hardscape. Plants are beautiful and desirable, but they also have the potential to drop pollen, leaves, and blossoms into the pool and clog filters.

Potted plants require less water, time and maintenance, while providing all the benefits of a lush pool environment. Depending on the selected species, they can provide color, texture, privacy, and shade. Some of the best potted plants for around the pool include the following that are able to withstand full sun and being splashed with pool water.

Flowering Plants

For individuals that enjoy blossoms, there are annuals and perennials that can be placed in pots around the pool. The disadvantage is that they produce vegetative debris that can find its way into the water and filters if they’re planted too closely to the pool. They can be used sparingly in containers to add a splash of dramatic color.

Palms and Cycads

Small species of palms can be the perfect accompaniment to the pool environment, such as Mediterranean Fan Palm, that can produce fronds up to six feet long. Palms and cycads have the advantage of slow growth. The sago palm is a form of cycad, a hold-over from the dinosaur age that enjoys rocky and sandy soils. Palms and cycads typically grow from 3-5 feet, but some are capable of reaching heights of 10 feet, so choose carefully. Smaller species of cycads are bushier and more closely related to pines.

Succulents

There are dozens of succulent species that can survive on less water than other types of plants, love the sun, are easy to grow, and require little maintenance. They encompass more than just cacti and can have lush foliage. Be careful when planting cacti and don’t place them too near the pool to avoid injuries to people and pets.

Yucca

Yuccas love full sun and are low-maintenance. They also have the distinction of being the primary source of food for the yucca moth. In turn, the moths are the only pollinators of the yucca. Pool owners will be doing the stately plants a favor and providing essential sustenance and cover for the delicate white moths.

RCH Landscaping is a full service landscape company based in Boca Raton, Florida. We design, install, and maintain Commercial and Residential landscapes all around Boca Raton, Delray Beach and The Palm Beach areas. Our team of highly skilled landscape technicians have an undisputed track record of creating and maintaining beautiful commercial and residential landscapes all over South Florida.

Contact RCH Landscaping Today for a Free Estimate

561-779-9760