In a recent discussion on Facebook, one of our readers asked us if we have any favorite hardy perennials for pots in particular. The answer is an obvious yes!
So, I thought, why not write a whole article on this topic and take everyone through my top picks one by one? Not only will it be fun and informative, but you might also get some planting ideas that could change your garden entirely!
Let’s dive right into it, shall we?
Why Choose Hardy Perennials For Pots?
Well, hardiness and resilience are traits that gardeners greatly value in plants. They ensure the plant will survive turbulence and troubling times without dying.
Hardy perennials easily survive winter, come back stronger every year without needing to be replanted, and save you lots of time, money, and effort.
If you’re curious about even more container-grown options, I’ve also written about trees that can thrive in pots, because containers don’t have to be limited to small stuff
Hardy Perennials That Really Shine Through In Pots
1: Hostas (Zones 3-9)
Hostas are known for their variegated growth and bold, striking foliage that emerges in colors like green and blue.
Keep the soil where your hostas are planted constantly moist (not overly soggy) and provide them with partial to full shade during hot hours.
Need help keeping them tidy? Check out how to divide hostas in fall so your potted beauties stay vigorous and lush.
2: Coral Bells (Zones 4-9)
Coral bells produce stunning foliage in shades of purple, bronze, gold, and deep green.
Tip: They’re the perfect perennials to grow in shaded spots. Just make sure to trim faded leaves in spring so the plant can redirect energy to more productive growth.
3: English Lavender (Zones 5-9)
The english lavender produces fragrant flower spikes and foliage that really complements its color. It’s a solid perennial option for attracting more pollinators to the garden.
Give this fragrant perennial full sun and well-drained soil to grow it happily in pots.
Want to get lavender thriving in a pot? I put together a guide on tips for growing lavender in pots to help you coax out the best blooms and scents.
4: Daylilies (Zones 3-9)
Not only are daylilies incredibly hardy, but they also produce strikingly vibrant blooms that return every year!
Tip: Divide your daylily clumps every 2-3 years to keep them fresh and growing vigorously.
For more low-maintenance, long-lasting floral charm, explore these long-blooming flowers perfect for pots and planter boxes you’ll love
5: Sedums (Zones 3-9)
Sedums are known for their unique succulent leaves and hardy nature. They bloom late into fall and stick around for a long time.
If you’re looking to grow something in a pot in your sunny patio, sedums are a solid option.
6: Dianthus (Zones 3-9)
Dianthus produces compact, fragrant flowers in bright shades of white, pink, red, and sometimes purple.
Tip: Deadhead this perennial regularly to achieve a whole new flush of blooms every time.
7: Shasta Daisy (Zones 4-9)
Shasta daisies are known for their pearly white daisy flowers with yellow centers in between. This perennial needs full sun to produce the best flowers possible.
Tip: Make sure to divide Shasta daisies every few years in pots to keep them healthy and disease-free.
Here’s are some more potted plants that thrive in full sun, they’ll smile at your windowsill or sunny balcony
8: Astilbe (Zones 4-9)
Astilbes are popular for their distinctive feathery blooms that come in shades of red, pink, and often white. They’re perfect for planting in shade as long as you keep their pot soil constantly moist.
9: Coreopsis (Zones 4-9)
Coreopsis blooms strongly resemble daisies up close. They’re bright, cheerful, and can bloom for months on end! This perennial loves sunlight, so make sure to keep the pot on a windowsill or out in the open.
Tip: Cutting coreopsis back after flowering can sometimes trigger reblooming if the conditions are right.
10: Ornamental Grasses (Zones 4-9)
Potted ornamental grass varieties like ‘Blue Fescue’ can add stunning texture to patios, balconies, and porches. Place them under full sun and grow them in well-draining soil only.
Tip: Prune your ornamental grasses in late winter for denser, more vigorous regrowth next year.
If you’re dreaming of more greenness even with limited floor space, don’t miss my list of compact climbers perfect for patios, pots, and balconies, great for adding height and drama without taking up precious real estate.
Can You Leave Hardy Perennials Outside In Winter?
Yes, you absolutely can!
In plants, hardiness means resilience. It means they can withstand cold temperatures with ease, and some might even survive harsh frost!
If your region is super cold and you know your perennial is hardy, there’s nothing wrong with leaving it outdoors.
If you’re unsure whether your perennial will be able to tolerate the frost, gradually expose it to the outdoor environment and acclimate it. Most hardy perennials will slowly adapt.
Let’s Conclude
I personally enjoy planting perennials straight into the ground in my mom’s house. But, as you know, I live in an apartment so I’m stuck with growing pots.
But, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with growing them in pots and, as a matter of fact, it can potentially be more beneficial due to the mobility the pots allow for.
Pick your favorite perennials from the choices above and try planting them by yourself. Let me know how it goes!
