Creating vibrant, season-long color in urban planter boxes is all about strategic plant selection. The key is combining reliable performers that bloom from spring through fall, often with minimal care. For stunning, continuous color, consider these top choices.
Petunias are a classic for a reason. Modern varieties, especially the 'Supertunia' or 'Wave' series, are prolific bloomers that cascade beautifully over edges, offering a waterfall of color from late spring until frost with just occasional deadheading. Geraniums (Pelargoniums) provide bold, clustered flowers and attractive foliage that withstands sun, wind, and occasional dryness, making them incredibly tough for city conditions. For a delicate texture and endless blooms, trailing Verbena is excellent. It thrives in full sun and pairs wonderfully with upright plants.
To ensure non-stop interest, incorporate foliage plants. Sweet Potato Vine ('Marguerite' or 'Blackie') adds lush, cascading leaves in chartreuse or deep purple, filling gaps when blooms briefly fade. For height and structure, consider Angelonia, or "Summer Snapdragon," which sends up spikes of flowers that tolerate heat and humidity exceptionally well.
The ultimate secret is layering. Plant a thriller (an upright focal point like a dwarf Dahlia or Salvia), fillers (mounded plants like Begonias or Calibrachoa), and spillers (trailing plants like Lobelia or Ivy). Use a high-quality potting mix, ensure adequate drainage, and fertilize regularly with a balanced liquid feed to fuel months of blooms. With this approach, your urban planter boxes can become a dynamic, colorful oasis throughout the entire growing season.