9 of the Easiest Flowers to Grow in Planter Pots

Impatiens are known for their cheerful, brightly colored blooms that brighten up any spot they’re placed. These easy-to-grow annuals thrive in both shade and partial sun, making them one of the most versatile choices for planters. While low-maintenance, impatiens do need consistent moisture—especially during hot spells. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, and be sure your planter has good drainage. With regular watering and a bit of care, impatiens will reward you with beautiful blooms all season long.

Petunias are a classic choice for container gardening, thanks to their bold colors and easygoing nature. These heat-tolerant flowers prefer five to six hours of full sun per day and don’t require constant watering. In fact, it’s best to let the top layer of soil dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. A light dose of fertilizer every couple of weeks will ensure your pots are filled with color all season long.

Compact marigold varieties are perfect flowering additions to containers. These reliable bloomers flourish in conditions not fit for other plants—full sun, heat, and low-quality soil. For best results in pots, give each plant a bit of breathing room—marigolds need space for their roots and good air circulation. Water when the top few inches of soil feel dry, and always use a planter with drainage holes so these golden beauties continue to thrive.

Begonias are a versatile option and can add pops of color to your more shaded spaces, especially in container gardens on patios, porches, and other low-light spots. These plants prefer indirect light, moderate temperatures, and consistently moist—but not soggy—soil. Use a well-draining potting mix, and let the soil dry slightly between waterings. With proper care, begonias can provide lasting beauty throughout the growing season.

If you’re looking for a low-maintenance, sun-loving plant known to attract butterflies, zinnias may be the perfect choice. These easy-to-grow flowers thrive in full sun and are well-suited for beginners. While they come in a range of sizes, shorter varieties are often a better choice for containers. Plant these flowers in a spot that gets plenty of sunlight and water only when the first few inches of soil have dried out.

Compact and perfect for containers, African violets add appeal to any indoor space. They do best with indirect light and steady moisture, so place them near a bright window and keep the soil consistently damp. Consider pairing with a self-watering planter to make care for this already low-maintenance plant even easier. With just a bit of attention, African violets will reward you with long-lasting blooms and healthy foliage.

Asters are cheerful, daisy-like flowers available in a wide variety of brilliant colors. They are a great addition to container gardens and help support pollinators like butterflies and bees. Asters flourish in full sun and prefer well-draining soil. When planting in pots, choose a container with drainage holes and plenty of room for root growth. Water regularly during hot weather, but allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings—asters don’t like to sit in overly moist soil.

With bright, multi-colored flowers, pansies are a charming option for both indoor and outdoor containers. These hardy flowers like plenty of sunlight and consistently moist soil, so be sure to use a well-draining potting mix and a container with proper drainage to keep roots healthy. With the right setup, pansies can last into the colder months, allowing you to enjoy their blooms beyond the regular growing season.

The small, delicate blossoms of cosmos bring a whimsical feel to container gardens. These full-sun bloomers grow best in warm temperatures and have minimal care requirements, making them ideal for beginners. Let the first two inches of soil dry out before watering, then drench the soil and allow the excess water to drain. Cosmos are naturally drought-tolerant, but it’s important not to overwater—too much moisture can lead to root rot. With just a bit of care, they’ll bloom reliably all season.