Congratulations on choosing a Modscene planter. In this article, we will walk you through the steps for potting your planter. Full of useful tips and tricks from our knowledgeable gardening experts, you will learn best practices for potting your plant to give it the best opportunity to thrive.
Step 1: Purchasing the Right Soil
Select a high-quality potting mix from your local garden centre. You can check the volume of your planter on our website to find out how much you will need. Avoid using compost or garden soil, as these will compact and do not offer the necessary drainage properties required for a healthy potted plant. Potting mix is specifically formulated for planters, providing excellent drainage and aeration.
Step 2: Position your planter
You might already have a spot for your planter, but make sure you are happy with its position before you fill it. Aim to have the badge at the front and centre so it doesn't look skewed. While they are very light when empty, once planted, they become very heavy and difficult to move.
Step 3: Add a layer of sand or stones
Cover the bottom of the planter with washed sand or small stones. This layer helps prevent the drainage holes from becoming blocked and can also help prevent nutrient leaching from the soil.
Step 4: Choosing your plants
You might already have your heart set on a specific plant, but if unsure, consider these prompts:
What is the style of your current garden? (Mediterranean, tropical, etc.)
Consider how much sunlight your plants will receive. Some species such as ferns love the shade while others such as Nikau palms thrive in full sun.
How often are you realistically able and willing to water? Different plant varieties require different levels of care.
If you answer these questions, you can refer to them when asking for recommendations for specific varieties at your local garden centre.
See below for ideas for different plant and pot combinations.
Madrid 600 Basalt with Thuja Conifers. Cylindrus 500 Ice White with an Olive tree.
Barcelona 1000 Bowl Ice White with a Cycad. Madrid 600 with a Pygmy Date Palm
Step 5: Gently remove your plant from its container or bag
Tip the pot sideways and tap the sides to loosen the root ball, then carefully remove the plant from its old container. Support the plant with your hand underneath the root ball, and avoid pulling on the stem.
Step 6: Filling your planter
Begin by filling your planter approximately halfway with potting mix. Then, carefully place your plant inside and continue filling the planter with the remaining potting mix. Pat down firmly and top it up as required. It will compact down a little over the next week, so we recommend filling it right to the top and then topping it up again after it has settled.
Step 7: Clean up and watering
To clean your planter, simply hose it down to remove the soil and water your plant. It is important to hose off the soil rather than wiping it off with a rag, as this will wipe dirt into the tiny pores. Using a garden hose or pressure washer will effectively clean your planter. Water the plant thoroughly to reduce the shock to the plant.
Bonus Tips:
- Use a slow-release fertilizer underneath your plant. This will provide a continuous supply of nutrients for your plant to remain healthy.
- Add a layer of mulch around the plant's base. Mulch helps retain moisture and suppresses weed growth.
Once you're done, don’t forget to stand back and admire the result. We love seeing photos of our pots in there new homes so please also send us a photo.
If you have any questions, you can call us on 0800 504 004 or email us at sales@modscene.co.nz.
Happy planting! 🪴🪴