GARDEN CAPSULE
The challenge: You like the appearance of exuberant containers with plants spilling over the edges, but you’re looking for something more exotic than the usual vinca vine or trailing petunia.
The solution: Try Mezoo Trailing Red livingstone daisy ( Dorotheanthus) for pots in full sun or part shade. It boasts green and white variegated foliage with occasional dime-size red flowers. In full or partial shade, one of the trailing varieties of torenia such as Summer Wave makes a pretty spiller with blue or violet blossoms. Don’t overlook creeping zinnia ( Sanvitalia) with its bright yellow flowers for a spot in the hot sun. And don’t forget colorful trailing plants more often grown indoors. Purple heart (Setcreasea) and purple wandering jew make particularly pretty spillers.
Pluses: Mezoo Trailing Red livingstone daisy is a succulent plant that is less likely to suffer than most if the soil in your pot dries out. By rooting cuttings of trailing houseplants you already have, you can grow your own spillers for free.
Minuses: You might find that some of these annuals are already sold out for the season.
Sources: Look for the recommended plants in displays of bedding plants and houseplants at local garden centers. Consider also using any trailing plants you are currently growing indoors. If you can’t find Mezoo Trailing Red livingstone daisy, you can order it online from Proven Winners ( provenwinners.com).