Do you plant inside or outside an obelisk?

When it comes to planting around an obelisk, there are two main options: planting directly into the ground around the base of the structure or planting inside the obelisk itself. The choice between these two methods depends on personal preference and the types of plants being used.

Planting outside the obelisk, in the ground around its base, is a common approach. This allows for a more traditional gardening style and offers a wider planting area. You can create a beautiful flower bed or herb garden around the obelisk, adding color and fragrance to your outdoor space.

One advantage of planting outside the obelisk is that it allows for a greater variety of plants. You can choose plants that have different sun and soil requirements, creating a diverse and visually appealing landscape. Additionally, planting outside the obelisk provides more room for roots to spread and grow, which can result in healthier and more robust plants.

However, some gardeners prefer to plant inside the obelisk itself. This approach can create a unique and eye-catching display, as the plants grow and cascade down the sides of the structure. It can be particularly effective with trailing or climbing plants, such as ivy or morning glories.

Planting inside the obelisk can also be a practical choice for those with limited gardening space. By utilizing the vertical space of the obelisk, you can maximize your planting area without taking up additional ground space. This is especially beneficial for urban gardeners or those with small yards.

When planting inside the obelisk, it’s important to consider the type of plants you choose. Opt for plants that are well-suited to container gardening, as they will need to thrive in a limited soil volume. Make sure to select plants that have a trailing or climbing habit, as these will be best suited to grow up or cascade down the obelisk.

In my personal experience, I have found that both methods of planting can be successful and visually appealing. I have planted colorful annual flowers around the base of an obelisk, creating a vibrant focal point in my garden. On another occasion, I planted a climbing rose inside an obelisk, and it created a stunning vertical display with its cascading blooms.

The decision to plant inside or outside an obelisk depends on personal preference and the specific plants being used. Planting outside the obelisk allows for a wider variety of plants and a more traditional gardening approach, while planting inside the obelisk can create a unique and space-saving display. Both methods can result in beautiful and visually appealing gardens.

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Caroline Bates

Caroline is a Miami-based landscaper who specializes in drought-tolerant landscapes. She is the mother of two young children and also enjoys writing for GreenPacks.org in her spare time. Caroline takes great pride in her work, and loves being able to share her knowledge with others through her writing.