Can I plant drought-tolerant shrubs in containers?
Written by
Nguyen Minh
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Drought-resistant shrubs can be the star of your container garden with some good selection and care. While many shrubs thrive in confined spaces, some small shrubs continue to maintain their drought resistance and water efficiency. Drought-tolerant options for container gardening include Dwarf Barberry and Lavender, which require the least maintenance. You can feel good about planting some sustainable greenery on your patio or balcony.
Dwarf Barberry
- Compact varieties stay under 2 feet (60 cm)
- Thorny structure deters pests naturally
- Tolerates urban pollution in confined spaces
Lavender
- Shallow root system adapts to container depth
- Fragrant oils repel insects without chemicals
- Prefers well-draining soil mixes
Lantana
- Continuous blooms from spring until frost
- Trailing varieties spill beautifully over edges
- Attracts butterflies to elevated spaces
Blue Star Juniper
- Slow growth maintains manageable size
- Steel-blue foliage provides year-round color
- Withstands temperature fluctuations in pots
Selecting containers affects drought performance. Select pots that are wider than the root ball by at least a couple of inches to enable root growth. Terra cotta allows moisture to breathe more effectively than plastic, helping to prevent root rot. My lavender flourished in 14-inch clay pots with drainage holes. Additionally, weigh the base for windy days.
Specially formulated potting mixes will help to prevent root problems in containers. A mix of two parts potting soil with one part coarse sand for drainage is also a good option. Then, include a measure of slow-release fertilizer at the time of planting. I like to incorporate crushed oyster shells into lavender pots to help naturally balance the pH of the soil. Do not use moisture-retaining crystals; they encourage rot.
Watering management doesn't compare to the irrigation of in-ground plantings. Container shrubs require about thirty percent more frequent watering, especially during the summer heat. I rely on a moisture meter to measure the moisture in the soil at the root depth. My potted barberry requires afternoon shade on the hottest summer afternoons. Consider grouping pots to create small pockets of humidity.
Seasonal care supports long-term health in containers. Every two years, prune the roots by cutting them in half and replacing all the soil. Insulate pots from freezing temperatures by covering them with bubble wrap or placing them against a south-facing wall in the winter. Rotate pots every month to ensure all sides receive equal sunlight.
Read the full article: Top Drought Tolerant Shrubs for Every Garden
