Have you heard the planting adage "Thiller, Filler, Spiller"? That is a handy way to remember that when you plant a container, it is good to have a central, taller, flashy plant (your "Thriller"), surrounded by some smaller plants that will fill up the open space, and perhaps add some interesting foliage (your "Filler), and cap things off with something that will have a cascading effect over the sides of the container (the "Spiller").
When I was at my local plant nursery out here in the middle of nowhere, the woman who was helping me select some plants clearly thought I was a nut case when I babbled my Thriller, Filler, Spiller credo. The little nursery is actually pretty good, particularly if you go there on the days that that plants are delivered from the wholesaler. And obviously the staff is fairly tolerant of ditzy locals. I had fun shopping for some plants and even managed to get my containers planted before I came down with this wretched virus that is tormenting me this week.
A little sewing is going on, very little. A zippy bag with some yo yo embellishment.
In one of my "other lives" I worked retail nursery. I've never heard of Thriller, Filler, Spiller. However, I sure wish I had!!!! So easy to remember and it's just what you need.
Posted by: Jean | April 24, 2012 at 08:27 AM
I've never heard of "Thriller, Filler, Spiller" either and love this idea and the look! I have two big pots on our front porch that need this treatment and soon.
Cute zippy bag and those yo-yos are the perfect accent for that fabric!
Wishing you WELL!
Hugs!
Posted by: Barbara Anne | April 24, 2012 at 08:43 AM
THe pot looks beautiful...put in some movies. that's what i do when i feel too crumby to sew and too sick to read. ;p
Posted by: ina | April 24, 2012 at 11:09 AM
Nicole, Hope you're feeling better very soon. Your zippy bags -- all of them -- are terrific!
Posted by: Debbie R. | April 24, 2012 at 11:33 AM
Feel better soon! Am loving your little bags and your tutorial is the best. Have ordered some zippers and patterns to get started on some too.
Posted by: Nancy G. | April 24, 2012 at 01:09 PM
Your flower pot is very pretty! I also try to think texture when putting flowers together. Try to find leaves that are different sizes or textures to add interest to your pots.
Herbs are good for this and also ornamental grasses. Sages, thyme or golden oregano is pretty tucked in with flowers.
Hope you're feeling well soon!
Posted by: Sharrieboberry | April 24, 2012 at 01:25 PM
Sending get well wishes...I had a quick catch up here today.
Posted by: Mary Flynn | April 24, 2012 at 02:05 PM
Your flowers & plants look beautiful! We have a few weeks to go before we can put anything outside but it's nice to look at your's! Feel better soon!
Posted by: Jan | April 24, 2012 at 07:24 PM
Love your pot and your bags! Sure hope you feel better soon, Nicole!!
Posted by: Joan S. | April 24, 2012 at 07:48 PM
I never knew there was a term for it but it's how I pick plants for my containers. Hope you feel better soon
Posted by: kate | April 25, 2012 at 04:32 AM
Love your little yoyo embellishment.
Hope you are feeling better soon.
Posted by: Miriam | April 25, 2012 at 04:57 PM
Who hasn't heard of thriller, spiller, filler? It's usually right on. Ya done good with your flower pots girl.
Posted by: Faye | April 25, 2012 at 07:30 PM
Fun catching up with what's been going on with you lately, Nicole. I love how you decided to finish off Winding Ways...and so glad you received lots of cards for Grandpa Larry. Hope he enjoys reading - I sure enjoyed the thought of tons of cards, including one from me, cheering him (and you) up and brightening the day. Your little bags are cute, cute, cute!
Posted by: Sherry | April 28, 2012 at 04:48 PM
Glad I stopped by in time to see your adorable planter filled. Love your saying. It makes sense.
Cute zipper bags. They are so much fun to make aren't they?? And expensive to buy.
Posted by: Sharon Yeager | April 29, 2012 at 08:19 AM
You so inspire me. I love the fabrics.
Posted by: Kathy L | May 07, 2012 at 04:45 PM