Considerations: plants and pots
When choosing a shrub to grow in a container, go for a species that’s naturally small or a variety that’s been selected for its compact habit. Alternatively, you could choose a shrub that will ultimately grow quite large if you plan to later transplant it to a permanent in-ground location. The container you choose should be two to three times the size of the pot in which you purchase the shrub. As for growing requirements, there are two key factors at which to look. The first is its winter hardiness. Choose something rated to two USDA zones colder than your own climate. If you’re in Zone 6, the shrub should be able to withstand winters in Zone 4. (Of course, you can always move more tender shrubs into a shed, garage or other cold but sheltered space for the winter.) The container should be frost-proof, so that it won’t crack or break as temperatures fluctuate. Unglazed terra-cotta typically breaks, but most other materials hold up. The second key consideration is the shrub’s moisture needs. Soil in containers dries out much more quickly than ground soil. You can choose a shrub that loves damp earth, but be prepared to water it perhaps twice a day. Even drought-tolerant potted shrubs will likely need to be watered two or
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