STEP 1: Choose a Container

Choose a container, making it the right size for your project. When possible, choose a pot that contains a drainage hole. Plan to place a generous layer of pebbles for pots without drainage holes at the bottom.

Pro Tip – Keep in mind that some plants that grow outdoors, especially vegetables and herbs, start very small but grow incredibly large by the end of the season. For a single tomato plant, for example, you want a container that’s at least 14″ in diameter. Vegetable and herb plants generally want an entire container to themselves and do not like to be overcrowded.

STEP 2: FIll With Potting Mix

Fill the container to one-third with fresh Potting Mix (indoors) or Planting Mix (outdoors), and moisten it with water.

Pro Tip – Your outdoor planter may have a deep design, but that doesn’t mean you need to fill it top to bottom with soil. Employ a reusable planter insert to use less soil, reduce planter weight, and ensure good drainage and air circulation.

Pro tip – For outdoor containers, avoid using any of the previous year’s soil that was left in the pot, and instead repurpose that leftover soil into your garden beds as compost.

Step 3: Plant

Position the plant(s) in the centre of the pot, loosening each root ball as you go.

Pro Tip – Vary height for design. A mix of elevations makes the combo more interesting. Choose a tall “Thriller” plant for the centre. Add a few “Filler” plants around it. Finish with a “Spiller” that will trail out of the pot over time.

Pro Tip – Unlike vegetables and herbs, annual and perennial flowers and foliage plants can generally be packed into outdoor containers together.

Step 4: Backfill & Fertilize

Backfill the pot with additional potting mix, gently firming the soil as you go. A granular, slow-release fertilizer can be added to the soil at this time. Be sure to leave about one inch of space from the top for watering.

Pro Tip – A slow-release fertilizer will feed the plants for a good 4-6 weeks before reapplication is needed. For a quick, fast-acting boost during the season, water-soluble fertilizers like can also be applied every 2 weeks during the season.

Step 5: Water

Water it thoroughly, allowing the container to drain well afterward. Maintain watering as needed. For best results, water whenever the soil feels slightly dry.