10 Tricks For a Low-Maintenance Garden

Boxwood Patio

Boxwood balls in tall pots mark the entrance to an urban patio. Italian limestone paves the floor and tops the table.

Terra-cotta Retreat

Huge terra-cotta pots filled with greenery set the tone on this elegant wraparound terrace.

Fountain Square

A water garden surrounded by containers of foliage plants forms the centerpiece of this venerable, tranquil courtyard.

Lollipop Trees

Standards like these "lollipop" bays add a formal touch any garden. The braided trunks are actually the result of training two shoots around a supporting stake. Growing a bay "tree" this size takes several years, so if you want formality fast, buy finished models at the nursery.

Lush Pool

Wisteria-covered walls, pots spilling over with white petunias, and subdued lighting beckon evening swimmers to this lap pool.

Boldly Blue

Jolts of cobalt blue make a strong statement on this terrace carved out of a hillside. Plants include hostas, cannas, and phormiums. A palm in a huge urn takes center stage, while blue ceramic wedges surrounding the pot provide extra seating.

Relax with Wicker

Pots of violas add spots of color to a neutral-toned patio that functions as an outdoor living room.

Rustic Elegance

Striking pots, ornamental grasses, and succulents give this high-walled courtyard an architectural feel.

Accent Flowers

With distinctive patterns on house walls and terrace floors, this container garden benefits from a simple color palette. Purple flowers accent the green and white scene supplied by foliage plants and calla lilies.

Private Respite

Completely surrounded by high building walls, this courtyard has what nearly every urbanite craves--privacy and quiet. Thanks to painted lattice and a light-colored stone floor, enough light reaches the scene to please the calla lilies and the houseplants spending their summer outdoors.

For more garden ideas, purchase Container Gardening