Planning a move to Texas this year, or thinking of expanding your existing or new garden?

Then, why not consider container gardening? Container gardening has benefits that far outweigh those of traditional planting. It’s a great way to start gardening if you’re a beginner, and doesn’t require you to tear up your precious lawn space. In addition, if you plant in a container garden, you’ll have plants that are less susceptible to pests and diseases. Your plants will be portable, so you can move them inside if the weather becomes too cool or hot, or if you simply crave a change of scenery.

Because you can plant a variety of native Texas plants in containers, and because containers come in a variety of shapes and sizes, you’ll never be bored with the options available. Planting a container garden is a great hobby–and one that will keep your landscaping looking attractive for months on end. Consider planting these five native Texas plants in containers for an easy transition back into gardening season!

Container gardening has benefits that far outweigh those of traditional planting.

1. 1. Texas Lantana

There are over one hundred different varieties of lantana, but most are native to Texas and other warmer regions around the world. These plants produce rich, multicolored flowers that work well as alternatives to annuals in containers. Unlike traditional annuals, they flower pretty much year round. You’ll rarely see bare foliage with this plant.

2. 2. Wild Mint

Wild mint is a great choice for a container garden because it tends to spread aggressively if not controlled. It is very attractive to honeybees, and also produces a nice aroma. It can be harvested and used in teas, herbal remedies, and other recipes as well.

3. 3. Scarlet Star 

This unique plant requires some investment of time, but it proves to be entirely worth it when it flowers. Bromeliads take a few years to produce a bloom, but when they do, their vivacious colors are sure to wow you for months. This plant is primarily found in Mexico but extends as north as southern Texas. Since it prefers warmer weather, it’s optimal for container planting. This way, if the weather cools as it may in parts of Texas, it can be brought indoors.

4. 4. Zonal geranium

This plant is well-known by gardeners for its versatility and stunning appearance. It can tolerate a wide variety of soils, pollution, and sun conditions. Take cuttings inside to decorate the house, or leave it untouched outdoors as a marvelous addition to your container garden. In fact, it is frequently used as filler between larger plants in containers.

5. 5. Rough Century

 Although agave occasionally will produce yellow flowers, this native Texas plant is prized more for its dormant appeal than for how it looks in bloom. Agave is a great ornamental plant, especially in southeast Texas, and loves hot, dry weather. It is chosen by many gardeners for its laidback, low-maintenance appeal and edgy appearance. Furthermore, agave syrup can be used as an alternative to sugar in cooking.

Katie Kuchta is a gardening guru, outdoor living expert, and self-proclaimed foodie. She can often be found cooking in the kitchen or on the hunt for the best tacos; follow her on Instagram @atxtacoqueen. All native plant information provided by LawnStarter.