Tall Plants for Containers: How to Choose and Grow Them

Tall Plants for Containers

Do you want to add height and drama to your container garden? Tall plants are the perfect solution! They add vertical interest, create a focal point, and make your space look more sophisticated. But choosing the right tall plants for containers can be tricky. You need to consider their height, width, color, texture, and growing conditions. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of selecting and growing tall plants for containers.

Why Grow Tall Plants in Containers?

Before we dive into the details, let's talk about why you should grow tall plants in containers. Here are some benefits of container gardening with tall plants:

1. Maximizing Space

If you have a small balcony, patio, or courtyard, growing tall plants in containers can help you maximize your space. You can use vertical space instead of horizontal space, which means you can grow more plants in less area.

2. Creating Privacy

Tall plants can also create privacy and screening. If you have nosy neighbors, unsightly views, or a busy street, you can use tall plants to block them out. You'll get more privacy and tranquility without building a fence or wall.

3. Adding Interest

Tall plants add interest, variety, and texture to your container garden. They break up the monotony of low-growing plants and create a visual hierarchy. They also attract birds, butterflies, and other pollinators to your garden.

What to Look for in Tall Plants for Containers

When you're selecting tall plants for containers, you need to pay attention to several factors. Here are the most important ones:

1. Height and Width

The first thing to consider is the height and width of the plant. You don't want a plant that will outgrow its container or become too top-heavy. Ideally, you should choose a plant that is about one-third to one-half the height of your container.

2. Growth Habit and Form

The growth habit and form of the plant are also important. Some tall plants are bushy, some are spiky, and some are vine-like. Choose a plant that fits the style and theme of your garden. Also, make sure the plant won't obstruct the view or block the sunlight.

3. Color and Texture

The color and texture of the plant can create contrast and harmony in your container garden. Choose a plant with foliage or flowers that complement or contrast with other plants. Also, consider the texture of the leaves, stems, and flowers. A mix of smooth, rough, shiny, and fuzzy textures can add interest to your garden.

4. Growing Conditions

Finally, consider the growing conditions of the plant. Make sure it can thrive in the size, shape, and material of your container. Also, check the soil, water, light, and temperature requirements of the plant. Some tall plants prefer full sun, while others prefer partial shade. Some prefer moist soil, while others prefer dry soil.

Top 10 Tall Plants for Containers

Now that you know what to look for in tall plants for containers, let's explore some popular options. Here are the top 10 tall plants for containers:

1. Canna Lily (Canna x generalis)

Canna lily is a tropical plant with large, colorful flowers and lush foliage. It can grow up to 6 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide. It prefers full sun, moist soil, and regular fertilization. You can grow it in a large container with well-draining soil and water it regularly.

2. Fountain Grass (Pennisetum alopecuroides)

Fountain grass is an ornamental grass with feathery plumes and arching stems. It can grow up to 4 feet tall and 3 feet wide. It prefers full sun to partial shade, well-draining soil, and occasional watering. You can grow it in a tall, narrow container to accentuate its verticality.

3. Elephant Ear (Colocasia esculenta)

Elephant ear is a tropical plant with huge, heart-shaped leaves and tall stems. It can grow up to 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide. It prefers partial shade, moist soil, and high humidity. You can grow it in a large, deep container with rich, organic soil and frequent watering.

4. Angel's Trumpet (Brugmansia spp.)

Angel's trumpet is a tropical shrub with trumpet-shaped flowers and pendulous branches. It can grow up to 15 feet tall and 8 feet wide. It prefers full sun, fertile soil, and regular feeding. You can grow it in a large, sturdy container with good drainage and protection from strong winds.

5. Red Hot Poker (Kniphofia uvaria)

Red hot poker is a perennial plant with tall spikes of red and yellow flowers. It can grow up to 4 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It prefers full sun, well-draining soil, and moderate watering. You can grow it in a tall, narrow container with other sun-loving plants.

6. Papyrus (Cyperus papyrus)

Papyrus is a water-loving plant with tall, triangular stems and feathery tops. It can grow up to 10 feet tall and 3 feet wide. It prefers full sun, wet soil, and high humidity. You can grow it in a large container with plenty of water and fertilizer.

7. Yucca (Yucca spp.)

Yucca is a desert plant with spiky leaves and tall flower stalks. It can grow up to 10 feet tall and 4 feet wide. It prefers full sun, well-draining soil, and minimal watering. You can grow it in a tall, narrow container with gravel or sand at the bottom for drainage.

8. Cigar Plant (Cuphea ignea)

Cigar plant is a tropical plant with tubular flowers and dark green foliage. It can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It prefers full sun to partial shade, well-draining soil, and regular watering. You can grow it in a medium-sized container with other heat-loving plants.

9. Kangaroo Paw (Anigozanthos spp.)

Kangaroo paw is an Australian plant with fuzzy flowers and grass-like foliage. It can grow up to 5 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It prefers full sun, well-draining soil, and moderate watering. You can grow it in a tall, narrow container to showcase its unique flowers.

10. Ornamental Banana (Musa spp.)

Ornamental banana is a tropical plant with huge, banana-like leaves and colorful fruits. It can grow up to 15 feet tall and 10 feet wide. It prefers full sun to partial shade, moist soil, and regular feeding. You can grow it in a large container with a sturdy support for the trunk.

How to Grow Tall Plants in Containers

Now that you've chosen your tall plants for containers, it's time to plant and care for them. Here are some tips on how to grow tall plants in containers:

1. Choose the Right Container

Choose a container that is at least one-third to one-half the height of your plant. Make sure it has good drainage holes and is made of durable material such as plastic, ceramic, or metal. Avoid using terra cotta or concrete containers, which can crack or break in cold weather.

2. Use High-Quality Soil

Use a high-quality potting mix that is rich in organic matter, perlite, and vermiculite. Avoid using garden soil, which can be too heavy and compacted for container gardening. You can also add slow-release fertilizer or compost to the soil for extra nutrients.

3. Plant the Seedlings Properly

Plant the seedlings at the same depth they were in their original pots. Make sure the soil is firm around the roots and water the container thoroughly. You can also add mulch or rocks on top of the soil to retain moisture and prevent weeds.

4. Water and Fertilize Regularly

Water the container regularly, but make sure not to overwater or underwater the plant. Check the soil moisture level by sticking your finger into the soil up to the second knuckle. If it feels dry, water the container until water drains out of the bottom.

You should also fertilize the plant every 2-4 weeks with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the label and don't overfertilize, which can burn the roots and leaves.

5. Provide Adequate Light and Temperature

Most tall plants for containers prefer full sun to partial shade, depending on their species. Make sure the container is placed in a spot that gets enough sunlight throughout the day. You should also protect the plant from extreme temperatures, such as frost or heatwaves.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Even with the best care, your tall plants for containers may encounter some problems. Here are some common issues and how to solve them:

1. Yellow Leaves

Yellow leaves can indicate overwatering, underwatering, nutrient deficiency, or pest infestation. Check the soil moisture level, fertilization schedule, and presence of insects. Adjust the watering and feeding accordingly, and treat any pests with organic or chemical solutions.

2. Wilting or Drooping

Wilting or drooping can indicate underwatering, root rot, or pests. Check the soil moisture level, drainage holes, and presence of fungus or insects. Adjust the watering and drainage, and treat any pests or diseases with appropriate solutions.

3. Stunted Growth

Stunted growth can indicate nutrient deficiency, poor soil quality, or root-bound container. Check the fertilization schedule, soil type, and root size. Adjust the feeding and soil, and repot the plant if necessary.

FAQs about Tall Plants for Containers

1. Can I grow tall plants for containers indoors?

Yes, you can grow tall plants for containers indoors if you have enough space and light. Choose plants that tolerate low light and dry air, such as snake plant, fiddle leaf fig, or rubber plant. Use large, decorative containers with good drainage and high-quality soil.

2. Can I use tall plants for privacy on my balcony?

Yes, you can use tall plants for privacy on your balcony if you choose the right species and container. Choose plants that are at least 5 feet tall and have dense foliage or flowers, such as bamboo, arborvitae, or boxwood. Use large, sturdy containers with good drainage and support.

3. Can I mix tall plants with low-growing plants in the same container?

Yes, you can mix tall plants with low-growing plants in the same container if you follow some guidelines. Choose plants that have similar growing conditions and complement each other visually, such as tall grasses with trailing ivy or tall flowers with groundcover. Use a large container with well-draining soil and water all the plants evenly.

4. Can I prune tall plants for containers?

Yes, you can prune tall plants for containers to control their size and shape. Use sharp, clean pruners to remove the dead, damaged, or overgrown parts of the plant. Cut back the stems or branches to a node or bud, and avoid cutting into the woody part of the plant. You can also pinch or shear the tips of the plant to encourage bushiness.

5. How do I overwinter tall plants for containers?

To overwinter tall plants for containers, you need to protect them from frost, wind, and moisture. Move the container indoors or to a sheltered spot, such as a garage or basement. Cut back the plant to one-third of its size and remove any dead or yellow leaves. Water the container sparingly and monitor the soil moisture level. You can also cover the plant with burlap or plastic to insulate it from the cold.

Tall plants for containers can take your gardening to new heights, literally and figuratively. By choosing the right plants, containers, soil, and care, you can create a stunning and sustainable garden that adds value and beauty to your home. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced gardener, tall plants for containers are a great way to experiment, learn, and enjoy nature.