When do you choose a pot?
A pot is an excellent choice for plants in the following situations:
Flexibility in placement
Potted plants are ideal if you like to vary your garden or balcony layout. Pots can easily be moved to sunnier spots, provide shelter from bad weather, or brought inside in the winter.
Limited space
If you have a balcony, roof terrace or small city garden, pots are often the only option. They make it possible to create a green oasis even on smaller surfaces.
Control over the ground
Some plants, such as citrus trees, hydrangeas and certain herbs, require specific types of soil to grow well. In a pot, you can create the ideal composition, such as acidic soil for blue hydrangeas or airy potting soil for herbs.
Exotic or sensitive plants
Plants that are not winter hardy, such as olive trees or bougainvillea, do better in a pot. You can easily bring them inside during frost or move them to a sheltered spot.
Limitation of growth
In a pot, the growth of the roots is limited, keeping the plant more compact. This is useful for fast-growing species or if you want to keep a smaller plant, such as a miniature tree.
Tips for planting in pots
- Make sure you have a pot with good drainage so that excess water can drain away.
- Always use high-quality potting soil that is suitable for the plant species.
- Add food regularly, as nutrients are depleted more quickly in a pot.
When do you choose open ground?
Open ground is often the best choice in the following situations:
Room to grow
Plants with large root systems, such as trees, shrubs and perennials, need the space of the open ground to fully develop. Think of fruit trees, rose bushes and lavender.
Low maintenance gardens
Plants in the open ground need less watering because they have access to deeper layers of the soil where moisture and nutrients are stored. This makes them easier to maintain, especially during dry summers.
Hardy plants
Plants that are well-suited to our climate, such as boxwood, hydrangeas and ground cover, do perfectly in the open ground. They do not need protection from frost and can develop naturally.
Promoting biodiversity
In the open ground, plants can blend better with the natural environment, which is beneficial for insects such as bees, butterflies and birds. It helps to create an ecologically healthy garden.
Natural look
The open ground offers a more natural look and makes it possible to integrate plants harmoniously into the garden. Think of borders, lawns and vegetable gardens.
Tips for plants in the open ground
- Check the soil type in your garden (sand, clay or loam) and choose plants that suit it.
- Provide good drainage in wet areas to prevent root rot.
- Give the plant enough space to grow, especially with trees and shrubs.
How do you choose the right option?
To determine whether to plant a plant in a pot or in the ground, ask yourself the following questions:
- How big does the plant grow? Large plants usually need full ground.
- How much space do I have? For balconies and terraces, pots are often the best choice.
- Is the plant winter hardy? Sensitive plants are better placed in a pot so that you can protect them from frost.
- What do I want to do with the plant? Do you want to move the plant or let it grow in one place?
Combine both options for a dynamic garden
Of course, you don’t have to choose between pots and open ground; a combination often offers the best of both worlds. Use pots for accents and special plants, while planting larger, low-maintenance plants in the open ground. This mix creates a varied, vibrant garden that is practical and beautiful.
Want to learn more about which plants are suitable for pots or open ground? Take a look at our range and discover the perfect plants for your garden or balcony!
