Can I grow full sun annuals in containers?
Written by
Kiana Okafor
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Full sun annuals do best when growing in pots that receive proper care. For example, use potting pots that are 12 inches (30 cm) with drainage holes. The best pots are plastic or glazed ceramic because they retain moisture the best. Petunias and portulaca grow best in this environment. I created a sun-filled area for a client on a shaded balcony using light resin planters.
Potting Mix
- Use 70% potting soil + 30% perlite for drainage
- Add slow-release fertilizer pellets at planting
- Top with 1" (2.5 cm) bark mulch to retain moisture
Design Combos
- Thriller: Celosia spikes
- Filler: Compact marigolds
- Spiller: Sweet potato vine
Temperature management is very important. Water ceramic pots twice a day when conditions stay above 90°F (32°C). A client's black nursery pots cooked their roots until we switched to lighter-colored pots. Group pots together to provide shade for the roots needing moisture. Rotate each week so pots receive equal sun exposure.
Watering Hacks
- Insert finger 2" (5 cm) deep to test moisture
- Use saucers to catch runoff in windy areas
- Install drip irrigation for vacation care
Pest Control
- Spray aphids with diluted dish soap weekly
- Place coffee grounds around pots to deter slugs
- Introduce ladybugs for aphid management
Try experimenting without reservation. I had an unsuccessful effort with large sunflowers but ultimately learned dwarf varieties grow better in containers. You should post about your successes as well, mentioning the container gardening community or urban gardening. You can even make a habitat in a fire escape area for pollinators. Now, get those pots to work in the sunshine!
Read the full article: Full Sun Annuals: Blooms That Thrive in Sunshine
