Hector Manuel Sanchez; Art Direction: Mark Thompson
As autumn descends, the majority of gardeners turn to mums to grace their planters, yet there’s a wealth of other cold-weather flora eager to steal the show, such as ornamental kale and cabbage. These selections boast striking textures, vivid hues, and resilience that will keep your planters vibrant well into the spring. These effortless fall plant substitutions are ideal for rejuvenating worn-out summer pots and crafting enduring displays with minimal exertion.
With a handful of straightforward techniques and carefully chosen plant companions, these captivating container gardens can enliven porches, patios, and even outdoor dining settings. Mark Thompson, a seasoned gardener and co-proprietor of Shoppe in Birmingham, Alabama, reveals his top picks for low-maintenance combinations that are as visually stunning as they are simple to cultivate.
Hector Manuel Sanchez; Art Direction: Mark Thompson
For a burst of color that harmonizes with a monochrome aesthetic, Thompson has combined purple-and-white pansies and violas. Any color palette will suffice. Start by gently separating the roots of two ‘Peacock White’ kale plants and planting them at the center of the pot. Then, encircle the pot with creeping wire vines, tucking them towards the outer rim. Fill the rest of the space with pansies and violas. “Use your pointer and index fingers to press each plant firmly into the soil to eliminate any air pockets,” Thompson advises. This technique aids in water distribution, ensuring that the roots can absorb nutrients effectively.
Transform it into a centerpiece by surrounding the pot with mood moss to elevate an outdoor dining arrangement. “Mood moss is perfect for late fall and winter as it maintains its allure throughout the season,” Thompson notes.
Hector Manuel Sanchez; Art Direction: Mark Thompson
Low-maintenance brassica plants make a statement and are renowned for their ability to withstand light frosts (the cool weather accentuates their coloration). Nestle ‘Redbor’ kale at the center of the pot, and surround it with ornamental cabbage. “The kale grows taller and is more striking, whereas the cabbage remains lower and rounder,” Thompson elaborates. In a 16-inch pot, Thompson included one kale and five cabbages, but for larger containers, he recommends placing two or three kale plants at the center.
Despite their low-maintenance nature and hardiness, these plants flourish in partial to full sun, necessitating at least four hours of daylight daily.
Hector Manuel Sanchez; Art Direction: Mark Thompson
Time-honored Osaka ornamental cabbages take center stage in this container. Fill a large pot almost to the brim with loose potting soil, and firmly press each plant into place, ensuring ample space for growth beneath. “Remember to break up the roots with your fingers as they often arrive root-bound from the nursery pots,” Thompson advises. In this instance, Thompson utilized seven cabbages in 6- and 8-inch sizes. “During warmer weather, ensure consistent watering but also good drainage,” he says. Although cold-tolerant, these cabbages should be covered during severe frost events.
