In the world of gardening, there are some simple techniques that almost anyone can master, yet they can unexpectedly create stunning results. In the fall issue of Magnolia Journal, Joanna Gaines shares one such secret: the “Thriller, Filler, Spiller” planting formula. This method is suitable not only for experienced gardeners but also for beginners, allowing them to easily create vibrant, balanced, and eye-catching planter combinations.
Thriller, Filler, Spiller: A Simple and Effective Design Rule
The “Thriller, Filler, Spiller” concept has been used in landscape design for decades, but Joanna Gaines’ unique interpretation breathes new life into it. She categorizes plants in a container into three roles:
- Thrillers: These plants are the centerpieces of the composition, often tall or striking varieties that provide a vertical focal point for the container. Fillers: These plants are the backbone of the composition, adding volume, texture, and color to the pot and filling the center space.
Spillers: These plants drape or spread over the edge of the pot, softening the outline and adding movement.
This approach ensures the pot appears full, balanced, and layered, rather than flat or flat.
Why is this approach so effective?
Joanna Gaines explains that using the “Focus, Filler, Spiller” approach creates a natural rhythm and flow, as if plants were growing naturally in the wild. This approach avoids crowding plants and gives each plant ample space to shine.
This approach is extremely useful for both beginners and experienced gardeners because it simplifies the decision-making process of plant selection and composition. It eliminates the guesswork of how to coordinate plants and instead allows you to start with a clear framework. It also encourages the use of plants of varying textures, colors, and heights, adding visual depth and interest to the pot.
How to Apply This Technique at Home?
To create a planter following Joanna Gaines’s fail-safe formula, first select the right plants for each category based on climate, light conditions, and personal style preferences.
- Choose a focal point plant: Pick a plant that draws the eye upward or adds height. This can be a tall herb, an upright flowering plant, or something with distinctive foliage. The focal point anchors the entire composition, providing a strong vertical element.
- Add filler plants: Filler plants add volume and color to the planter. These are typically medium-height plants with dense foliage or flowers that fill the center of the pot. Think of them as the “body” of the pot.
- Finally, add hanging plants: Hanging plants soften the edges of the pot, adding a sense of flow and ease. Choose vines with a hanging habit or plants that spill over the edge of the pot to add movement and a more complete look.
Joanna Gaines’ Classic Plant Combinations
In Magnolia Journal, Joanna shares her favorite fall plant combinations:
- **Focus Plant: Echinacea (Coneflower): This upright perennial attracts pollinators with its vibrant blooms while adding height.
- **Filler Plant: Coleus (Begonia): Known for its vibrant, multi-colored foliage, it adds rich texture and depth to any pot.
- **Hanging Plant: Potato Vine: Its hanging growth habit and glossy green leaves gracefully drape over the edge of the pot.
These three plants perfectly balance height, texture, and movement, creating a lush and vibrant pot combination perfect for any outdoor space.
More Plant Combination Inspiration
Here are a few other “focal point, filler, hanging” plant combinations to inspire your next pot project:
- Purple Fountain Grass + Dusty Miller + Creeping Jenny
- Ornamental Kale + Saxifrage + Sweet Potato Vine
- Sunflower or Canna Lily + Lavender or Marigold + Ivy or Nasturtium
By experimenting with different plant combinations based on this formula, you can create a variety of styles, from modern and bold to soft and rustic.
Gardening Tips from Joanna Gaines
In a story for Magnolia Journal, Joanna emphasizes the importance of pot size and planting soil. Choose a pot large enough to accommodate your plants and use high-quality soil to maintain their health. Make sure to water them regularly, especially in warmer months, and don’t be afraid to rotate your plants seasonally to keep the pot fresh.
Most importantly, remember to have fun. The “focus, filler, hanging” approach isn’t just a planting strategy; it’s a way to inject creativity and personality into your garden space.
