Question
I actually need some advice.  I am a first-time gardener with NO gardening skills, but I want to learn.  I bought 2 large pots ( about 2-3 feet high, and 2 feet across).  

I would like to place them outside, on either side of my front door, with some pretty plants in them.  I live in Southwest Texas, and it stays pretty hot down here.  The area gets mainly sun, with a little shade in mornings and evenings.  What plant would you recommend planting in these pots?  I love greenery, such as ivys, but I'd like a little color, too.  Can you suggest something?  And also, how often to water, feed, etc?  I'd appreciate some expert advice, so I don't kill another plant....
Kacey

Answer
Kacey,

This time of year you may have a difficult time finding any plants I reccommend. How cold does it get there during the winter? If it does not freeze and you want long lasting plants I would suggest a tropical hibiscus plant in each pot for an upright plant. Some small ornamental pepper plants could fill in around those. Any tropical vine such as wandering jew, grape ivy or sweedish ivy would drape over the sides and hang down making a lovely pot.  If it gets below freezing there during the winter you will need plants that can survive the cold or annuals that you will make a nice fall show and then replant them in the spring. I suggest you go to a plant center and see what is available. Keep in mind you want a tall plant for the center, some shorter plants to fill in around the sides and something that will vine over the sides of the pot. That will make it look it's best. Good luck.

Darlene