And fountain grass has taken the place of the standard spike for giving height to your pot design. Sean Beeson, sales associate at Fruehauf's Nursery in Boulder, suggests planting hardy perennials such as the purple scabiosa, or pin cushion plant, in porch containers. The many varieties of native, succulent sedums and the purple and yellow flowering ice plant also do very well, he says. Herbs and vegetables of all type and flavor will do very well potted, as long as they receive at least six hours of full sunlight, many experts say. French lavender, thyme, basil, chocolate mint and tomatoes are all great ideas for pots and window boxes.
Many edibles are as unexpectedly ornamental as useful.
White onions, for instance, grow tall, spiked, green shoots that sprout delicate purple blossoms on top, and make an attractive patio plant. Root vegetables such as carrots and beets can survive on the patio, so long as they are in a pot at least 12 inches deep. But watch out for herbs and vegetables such as dill or corn that can grow too tall to be supported by a pot. For a more yard-like look, you can also grow even bigger, greener luxuries, such as trees and shrubs, on your patio. Many different junipers grow well in pots, he says, adding that evergreens won't necessarily die in pots in the winter and can withstand often dry pot conditions better than many herbacious plants.