Cheery containers that herald spring

It's easy to put together a pretty spring show. You can be the first on your block with a hardy, no-fail early combo of ranunculus and pansies—unfazed even by a late snowfall—set off with branches from the garden (forsythia and pussy willow work well). Later on, add more containers planted with spring bulbs and other ephemerals. Out-of-season plants, such as hydrangeas and marguerites, look lovely in a spring arrangement, but their blooms may be short-lived if the thermometer takes an unexpected dip. Deadhead often, and be prepared to replenish spent flowers with fresh plants as needed.