Early spring container flowers

Canadian gardeners have discovered the joys of outdoor container displays that change with the seasons. As seen on these pages, spring containers can range from sweet and simple do-it-yourself combinations to highly sophisticated professional arrangements.

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.

Planter pointers
• Don't be afraid to experiment and do a dry fit first, leaving plants in their pots until you're sure of their placement. Step back periodically to examine your efforts and adjust the arrangement until it looks right to you.

• Branches cut from the garden add height and drama—for containers viewed from all sides, place them in the middle; for those viewed from the front, place them at the back. Hardy ivy (Hedera helix spp.) creates a soft, billowy effect around the edge of a container and lasts from early spring to winter. Ferns, grasses and other small perennials add texture and can be planted into the garden later in the season.

• Place sheet or long-strand sphagnum moss (available from florists) around plants to hold in moisture and give your container a professional look. Small stones, tiny sculptures or seashells are other attractive ways to add a finishing touch.

• Elaborate, look-at-me arrangements work best where they don't compete for attention. In a naturally beautiful setting, try a simple planting that frames and draws the eye toward the view, such as a monochromatic arrangement or a mass display of just one type of bulb.

Read more in Gardens and Container Gardening