In The Garden » Poolside Planters
Poolside Planters
Poolside Planters
Poolside Planters

Why not utilize the space around a pool for plants as well as lounge chairs? The trick lies in finding plants that thrive in the baking sun where a pool is usually sited. Selecting the right plants for the position is part of the fun.

Gardener and container expert Rob Gennari of Glendale Botanicals shares his ideas for creating containers with pizzazz but also simplicity. He finds that three or four components balance nicely, and he warms to the drama of partnering clearly defined architectural forms.

When planting a container, Rob suggests selecting containers that are sufficiently large to host sizable, noteworthy, focal point plants without cramming, and they should be deep enough to eliminate the need for constant watering. When composing a planter, look for plants that are tall rather than wide to free up traffic patterns around the pool and choose sun-lovers such as succulents. During the creative process, consider color themes or follow your nose to fragrant plants.

Some of Rob's favorite subjects for poolside planters include:

Agave (cut off the barbs, especially if children or pets are close by)
Echeveria
Carex
Alocasia
Colocasia, or elephant ears
Cyperus, or umbrella plants
Bromeliad species
Euphorbia species
Phormium species
Aloe species
Kalanchoe species
Palms
Musa species, or bananas

Special thanks:
Rob Gennari
Glendale Botanicals
P. O. Box 68
Glendale, MA 01229

Bromeliads from:
David Burdick
Daffodils and More
P. O. Box 495
Dalton, MA 01227
www.daffodilsandmore.com