A long time ago (2010-2016) when Burley was thriving, Pam designed 3 beautiful large 16"d x 11.5"h gardening containers. Each container was themed for a specific use, the perfect all in one container garden.
While looking for some files, we came across her guides and original drawings of the containers she had envisioned. We have scanned her drawings and transcribed them on here so everyone can make their own container gardens at home.
Create A Bird & Butterfly Container Garden:
Burley's large stoneware containers (discontinued) have been designed large enough to encourage proper root depth and accommodate full, bush growth for many varieties of flowering plants. (We suggest trying to find a container around the same size given above or make your own elevated wooden planter boxes).
It is easy to create a beautiful blooming Bird & butterfly garden with the ease of this movable container. You can enjoy the pleasures of watching hummingbirds and butterflies right from your porch.
CHOOSE THE PROPER INGREDIENTS FOR THIS CONTAINER:
- Place approximately 2" of small stones in the bottom of the pot for drainage.
- Fill the container to the top with a "grower's mix" potting soil that is available at your local garden center.
- Choose plants that will fill the pot nicely without over crowding the growth of the others.
- There are many annuals that will bloom all season long.
Plant Suggestions:
- Zinnias
- Cosmos
- Flowering Tobacco (nicotiana alata) or annual Fuchsia
- Marigolds
- Verbena
- Petunia
- Nasturtium
- Alyssum
Planting:
- Plant tall growing plants in the center, such as Zinnia, Flowering Tobacco and Cosmos. Arrange them in a center triangle like the diagram. Plant the other flowers as suggested close to the edge of the planter for room for growth. The Nasturtiums and Petunias will cascade over the edge of the pot as they grow.
Growing:
- Once planted and watered, tuck loose sphagnum moss around the base of the plants, covering the soil to help hold moisture and keep roots cool in the hot sun.
- Place the container in a full sun location, or at least 6 full hours of sun a day.
- Water as needed. Check soil daily to plants to not dry out. This is especially necessary when young plants are newly planted. Moisture helps plants establish a deep, healthy root system.
- Feed plants once every two weeks with a fertilizer designed for blooming growth. Follow package directions for recommended use. Cut back to once a month mid-season to maintain slow steady growth.
- Pinch off dead heads of flowers to encourage more blooms.
- After the first freeze, empty pot and store for the winter. In milder climates (no hard freezes), trim growth back to half and allow a second season of flowers to continue. After a period of rest (winter months), resume feeding to encourage new flowering.