Springing into a New Chapter

The boxwoods are budding, Texas bluebonnets are blooming, and our winter coats are finally gathering dust in closets. Spring, is that you?

At last, warm temps and bluebird skies. To celebrate I hit the road with my girls for portraits in the wildflowers – a family tradition since I moved to Austin 10 years ago. When we aren’t buzzing off bumble bees, we skip through the wildflowers with a real spring in our step.

Watching my daughters play in nature brings me back to my roots in Louisiana. Mom’s discerning eye for design meant her country home was nestled in a lush wonderland this time of year. Her spring garden boasted azaleas, wild fern, soaring crepe myrtles, fragrant magnolias, and those oh-so-tempting daffodils that were always begging to be picked.

I definitely inherited her love of design, and yes – daffodils (now my oldest picks mine). And after years of watching her garden and her business grow, I’m thrilled to join her team cultivating a social media presence. Follow along @anamese.garden.home on Instagram and Facebook for beautiful Vietnamese and Italian pottery, and daily garden inspiration.

We Can’t Contain Ourselves: Tips for the Ultimate Container

Containers ready for planting? Spring itself is fertile ground for inspiration. The goal is to capture those lush contrasts found in nature this time of year. Plan on three to four varieties for a single pot. (Yes, four!) Think about variety compatibility. For example, make sure they have similar shade and sunlight requirements or water needs.

Next, consider the texture, structure, and color of your choices. Start with a single plant that will add height and drama. Something like a Green Mountain Boxwood or a Golden Sword yucca. Both add color to the landscape year-round (thinking ahead!) and create spectacular focal points.

Now search for a plant that will play off your container’s color and texture as it cascades over the rim. Golden creeping Jenny is a reliable performer, as well as Wandering Jew. Both bring vibrant color and interesting texture. This element is really going to make your container pop.

Lastly, add a filler like Bergenia. It’s a strong grower that will boldly contrast with small leaf neighbors. Its hardy, waxy leaves fill in space and the pink blooms shoot up on strong stalks that’ll transform your container from bla to beautiful.

Whether it’s in your garden or your living room, planting a new container can be a blast. Recreate that burst of life spring brings to the new year and don’t forget: you’re never too old to frolic among the wildflowers (but you might be too old to pick mom’s daffodils).

Coleton Planter

Vietnamese Unglazed Product ID: tn2520

Aria Tall Planter

Italian Terra Cotta  Product ID: ir126 

I Planter Glazed

Shown in Sand Product ID: gr133