Have you ever been captivated by the stunningly arranged planters in Joanna Gaines’ abode or garden? You might be curious about the secrets behind her consistently lush and well-balanced displays. In the autumn edition of The Magnolia Journal, she reveals her trick: the “thrillers, fillers, and spillers” technique. This straightforward yet powerful design philosophy aids gardeners of all abilities in crafting captivating planter setups that are as beautiful as they are harmonious.
This concept is nothing new, having been a staple in landscape design for years, but Gaines’ interpretation adds a refreshing, accessible twist. The formula categorizes the plants within a container into three key roles:
Thrillers are the plants that steal the show, typically tall or striking, contributing to vertical appeal and a focal point within the planter. Fillers are the backbone of the arrangement, adding bulk, texture, and color to the center. Spillers drape or cascade over the planter’s edges, softening the form and introducing a sense of motion.
By following this formula, your planter will exude fullness, balance, and vitality, rather than appearing flat or one-note.
Gaines elucidates that by employing thrillers, fillers, and spillers in her planters, she achieves a natural rhythm and flow that echoes the growth patterns of wild plants. This method avoids overcrowding and allows each plant to stand out.
This technique is beneficial for both novices and seasoned gardeners as it streamlines the process of selecting and arranging plants. Instead of guessing how to combine plants, you start with a clear framework. It also promotes the use of plants with varying textures, colors, and heights, adding visual depth and interest to your planter.
To create a planter using Gaines’ foolproof formula, begin by selecting plants for each category based on your climate, lighting, and personal style.
Select Your Thriller: Opt for a plant that draws attention upwards or adds height, such as a striking grass, a vertical flowering plant, or a vibrant foliage plant. The thriller serves as the anchor for your arrangement and provides a robust vertical element. Add Fillers: Fillers contribute volume and color and are typically mid-height plants with lush foliage or blooms that fill out the container’s center. Consider them as the “body” of your planter. Finish with Spillers: Spillers round out the edges and introduce a relaxed, flowing appearance. Trailing vines or plants that cascade over the sides are ideal for creating movement and a complete look.
In The Magnolia Journal, Joanna shares her preferred plant combinations for autumn planters.
Coneflower (Thriller): A striking upright perennial with vivid blooms that attract pollinators and add height. Coleus (Filler): Renowned for its colorful, variegated foliage, coleus adds rich texture and depth. Potato Vine (Spiller): With its trailing nature and glossy green leaves, potato vine spills gracefully over the planter’s edge.
This trio harmoniously balances height, texture, and movement, resulting in a full, inviting container that complements any outdoor setting.
Here are some additional thriller-filler-spiller combinations to spark your next planter endeavor:
Purple Fountain Grass + Dusty Miller + Creeping JennyOrnamental Kale + Heuchera + Sweet Potato VineSunflower or Canna Lily + Salvia or Marigold + Ivy or Nasturtium
Experimenting with a variety of plants according to this formula enables you to create an array of styles, from modern and bold to soft and cottage-like.
In her Magnolia Journal article, Gaines highlights the significance of container size and potting mix. Choose a planter large enough to accommodate your plant’s growth, and use premium soil to maintain their vitality. Ensure regular watering, particularly during warmer months, and don’t hesitate to swap out plants seasonally to keep your containers looking fresh.
Above all, remember to enjoy the process. The thrillers, fillers, and spillers method is more than just a planting strategy—it’s a means to infuse creativity and personality into your garden spaces.
