I've been admiring this container all summer:
It's so simple yet so very striking. I wish it was in my yard. But the truth is, it belongs to one of my neighbors a couple blocks away. I walk past it every evening and think "I need to photograph that." Finally, the other day, when I walked over to ask permission, my neighbor was outside. I'm so glad. She told me the foliage filling the top is a simple garden spike (bought at a big box store). Her husband does not like to throw anything away so he's overwintered it (in their garage) the past three years! Amazing, isn't it? I've never thought to keep those little green spikes. I figured it was a houseplant? She added coleus around the bottom and achieved a spectacular result with minimal effort. So uncomplicated. The pot isn't even that big (I don't know if you can see it very well in this photo?) Container gardening does not have to be difficult now, does it?
It is lovely! Dramatic, too! I like it. Isn't it fun to stop and ask other gardeners a question...they are usually friendly and generous.
Gail
Posted by: gail | October 01, 2008 at 09:21 AM
That's the best part Gail ~ gardeners are so great! and "dramatic" is a good adjective to describe this container.
Posted by: Kathleen | October 01, 2008 at 09:43 AM
Gorgeous container & what a great way to keep it year after year.
Posted by: Racquel | October 01, 2008 at 12:30 PM
That is striking! Looks perfect for that space.
Posted by: Robin | October 01, 2008 at 12:56 PM
I'm thinking of trying it myself Racquel!!
Posted by: Kathleen | October 01, 2008 at 01:51 PM
It is the perfect spot Robin. They have two garage doors side by side with a space in-between them. The planter fits perfectly in that space. I can't imagine what it will look like next year since she said her husband planned to keep it again this winter.
Posted by: Kathleen | October 01, 2008 at 01:54 PM
I don't blame you for the 'envy'. a beautiful but oh so simple container. I have a purple spike-think I will try to over winter it. Thanks for the idea.
Posted by: Beckie | October 01, 2008 at 10:32 PM
That is quite a majestic container! Very attractive and lush.
Posted by: Layanee | October 02, 2008 at 09:19 AM
I might try it too Beckie!! It's worth a shot.
Posted by: Kathleen | October 02, 2008 at 01:58 PM
I agree 100% Layanee. If possible, it's even better in person!
Posted by: Kathleen | October 02, 2008 at 01:59 PM
That's beautiful! Your neighbor must have a flair for the dramatic! Those neighbors we have! :-) (Hence the name of my blog!) ha.
Posted by: Shady Gardener | October 03, 2008 at 09:32 PM