Empty Planters

shazza3

Hello, i have two large square ornamental planters that i planted up with Box pyramids. I've just removed these because although they looked nice, they didn't seem to be doing very well and have now put them in the garden instead.

I would like to replace them with something else, something that doesn't mind being in a very large container. These are the conditions where they will be situated -- very exposed patio, no surrounding trees, they would have to tolerate very high winds as we are behind the school playing fields as well.

 

All suggestions welcome, thanks

shaz  

PS -- they can't be too tall because of the wind  

Roy Hill

Box actually likes a bit of shade and moisture, so you've probably done it a favour. Care for it in pots is a labour of love. How about a box look-alike? Ilex crenata. You could train/clip your own shape. And there's an upgright/columnar version (fastigiata). It is a bit tougher than box. Like box, it is a slow grower so may have to be patient. That's my off-the-top-of-the head suggestion for an 'archtectural' style planting.

shazza3

thanks for the reply. i'm a bit confused about what you say regarding the conditions that Box prefer as i always see them in large containers, usually outside someone's front doors. they're never in shade and as they're in pots, probably not moist enough either, that's why i thought i'd try them myself.

anyway, will have a look at the plant you've suggested.

thanks, shaz  

ZombieGardener

I've 2 box's growing in pots from last year. well i say growing they are green but not growing at all. proberly the same size as last year. Never clipped them yet as i dont want to loose whats there belive me its not much.. But they are in full sun trying to find shade is hard for me out back. i might as roy says move them round the front where the suns gone about mid-day. It's no wonder these box plants are about £70 for one's the size of a beach ball. Having tried and failed myself i unsterstand that now. They must be 10 years old.

Shazza what you after in your pot's are you looking for an evergreen or a nice perennial?

Fairygirl

Ilex - the ordinary holly -  is also a good choice for your location. We had standard hollies in square lead planters at last house in a similar situation. You could simply clip them into the shape you want- comes balls etc and they are very tough and reliable. 

shazza3

hiya, thank you all.

holly sounds a bit more hardy than the box, but would it withstand the wind ??? couldn't have something too tall. i think i'd prefer evergreen as already have lots of deciduous shrubs/trees.