How To Use Large Planters Near the Front Door

Matching Planters

• Flanking your front door with a pair of matching planters draws attention to the door and gives the entry a balanced, symmetrical effect. Planting perennials compatible with the light level near the door creates year-round container gardens to decorate your home. Large foliage plants offer a low-maintenance option for the planters. Choosing planters that fit the space near your door creates a smart, attractive effect. For example, if the area near your doorway is narrow, place rectangular planters at a 90-degree angle to the door to create long rows of color without taking up too much space.

Grouped Planters

• Place a group of planters on your porch according to your home's design and environment. For instance, line up three in a row on each side of the door to add color to a long porch or deck. Large urn-shaped planters help to soften the look of a house and porch that are dominated by straight lines. Planting them with evergreens or bamboo adds greenery; or, use a variety of perennial flowers for pots of color. Using planters with wheels makes it convenient to move them in areas that have harsh winters, and gives you the flexibility to change the arrangement easily.

Planters On or Next to the Steps

• For a front door with little or no porch space, large pot-shaped or square planters work well on steps if the steps are wide enough to accommodate them without creating a tripping hazard. Arranging large planters at the base of the steps on each side also adds color without crowding the front door area. Use redwood planters or planters with colorful glazes to create an eye-catching effect near your doorway.

Wine Barrel Planters

• Large planters made from winery half-barrels give your home an informal look that works well for a country or ranch-style ambience. These wide planters give you space to create miniature gardens with multiple colors and textures. Put the tallest plant in the middle, with medium-size plants around it and the shortest plants near the edge. Planting vines or trailing plants around the edges of the half-barrels creates a lush effect as the plants spill over.