Red Bluff Garden Club: Thriller, filler and spiller

By Shirley Felder

What does this phrase that gardeners use, thriller, filler and spiller mean? Is it some kind of ancient secret code? I'm glad you asked. Here's the answer. When you are planting a pot for decorative purposes these are the three things needed to create a well balanced container.

The Thriller ? a plant with height (such as ornamental grasses or tall snapdragons). These should be planted in the center or at the back of the pot.

Fillers ? are rounded or mounded plants. More than one kind can be used (as an example, lantana, ornamental cabbage or kale, or succulents). These should be planted around the Thriller.

Spillers ? trailing plants, planted close to the edge of the container (such as ivy geraniums or million bells).

Now that you have the concept, the next decision is what kind of pot or container should be used. Personal preference is the major factor. Be aware that this doesn't work for hanging baskets. The thrill is too tall, so only fill and spill can be used for them.

Terra Cotta or stone ? have a wide variety of shapes and sizes. Because they are porous, they absorb water from the soil and will dry out easily, but the pots are relatively inexpensive.

Wood and baskets ? they decay faster, but give a more natural look.

Wire or metal ? also come in many shapes and sizes. Plants in a thinner metal container are prone to overheating and frost damage. They can also leave rust stains on patios.

Molded plastic or resin pots ? require less water and soil stays evenly moist, however, if plants are over-watered , excess salts cannot leech out of the feeding roots and they will never recover.

Recycled materials ? like old boots, toys, washtubs, etc. These need to be cleaned with soapy water and then disinfected with one part bleach and nine parts water.

Any sort of container can be used for a planter, but they must have holes for drainage. Larger pots hold more soil and water and dry out slower than small ones. Also, if you plant a shrub in a narrow neck container, when the roots spread out and you have to repot it, all you can do is break your container to get it out.

If you choose to have a grouping of plants, use pots made from the same material but in different sizes for an informal look. For a more modern or elegant look the pots should be the same material, but all the same size.

There are no limits. Let your imagination soar. Just remember, Thriller, Filler and Spiller.

The Red Bluff Garden Club is affiliated with Cascade District Garden Club; California Garden Clubs, Inc.; Pacific Region Garden Clubs and National Garden Clubs, Inc.