How to Refresh Your Front Porch Containers for First Day of School Pictures
If you're getting ready for that sweet first day of school picture, don’t forget your front porch! A fresh container arrangement can make all the difference, and late summer is a great time to swap in heat-loving plants that still look vibrant. The first day of school is such a special moment, and your front porch is the perfect backdrop for those treasured photos. A little refresh goes a long way in making those memories picture-perfect.
Step One: Clear Out the Summer Tiredness
By late July, summer containers start looking… well… a little rough. Petunias that once looked lush now have crispy edges, and those spring blooms may have fizzled out altogether. Take a few minutes to trim back or pull anything that’s past its prime. Don’t be afraid to do a full refresh!
This container we’re using as inspiration is packed with plants that can handle the heat and keep going strong through fall.
Step Two: Choose Plants That Look Great in Photos (and Last)
Green + White = Classic and Classy
Here’s the lineup in this gorgeous shade-loving container:
Kimberly Queen Fern – tall, elegant, and the perfect backdrop
Trailing Kangaroo Paw Fern – adds a fun cascading texture
Variegated Ivy – softens the edges of the container and trails beautifully
Florida Moonlight Caladiums – those bright white leaves pop in photos
Wire Vine – delicate texture for the front
Fittonia – tiny, patterned leaves add detail up close
Japanese Bird’s Nest Fern – glossy and architectural
Maidenhair Fern – feathery and romantic
Pro Tip: If your porch gets more sun, swap the ferns and caladiums for sun-lovers like coleus, trailing sweet potato vine, and dwarf ornamental grasses.
Keep scrolling for more inspiration!
Step THREE: Give YOUR Porch a Quick Clean-Up
The night before school starts, wipe down your front door, sweep your porch are remove all those little cobwebs, and give your containers a drink of water so they’re perked up for the morning.
If you’re a detail person (hi, kindred spirit), add a fresh doormat and maybe a seasonal wreath. These little touches make a huge difference in how “finished” your porch looks in pictures.
If you are looking for plants that you can find at your local garden center, here’s a fun combo that I assembled during our Live from the Garden Center trip that’s full of texture and color:
Great options to refresh your front porch containers with plants you can find now!
Yellow Coneflower (Echinacea) – A cheerful, sun-loving bloomer that gives great height and long-lasting blooms.
Coleus – This foliage star brings bold contrast with deep burgundy and lime green leaves. Look for sun-tolerant varieties and keep it watered.
Ornamental Grass – Adds movement and soft height. Perfect as a thriller in the center or back of your pot.
Celosia – That vibrant magenta bloom adds a fun, fluffy texture and stands up well to heat.
Sedum – Low and chunky, this succulent-style foliage is great for filling in edges and transitions beautifully into fall.
If you missed the Live from the Garden Center with Tommy, be sure to watch it here!
Layer these in a large terra cotta pot with fresh potting mix, and water deeply to help them settle in. Place your container where it’ll get good morning light for the best blooms and longest color show.
Here are some more great plant options to refresh your front porch containers in late summer, especially if you're prepping for back-to-school photos:
Something Tall
Purple Fountain Grass – Adds height and movement
Coleus – Bold foliage in warm hues
Canna Lilies – Tropical flair with vibrant blooms
Something Thick (Mid-Level, Adds Body)
Caladium – Big, colorful leaves that love the heat
Begonias – Constant bloomers, especially in shade
SunPatiens – Heat-tolerant and full of color
And something Trailing (Trailing Over the Edge)
Sweet Potato Vine – Fast-growing with chartreuse or deep purple leaves
Trailing Vinca – Hardy and colorful
Creeping Jenny – Adds a pop of bright green and cascades beautifully
Bonus Tips:
Stick to a warm, cohesive color palette like deep pinks, oranges, and chartreuse for a fun fall porch. Want a more Southern, classic feel? Go with white begonias, boxwood topiaries, and English ivy for timeless charm.
Swap out tired spring annuals with fresh late-summer performers that will carry you into early fall.
Don’t forget to water deeply and consistently in the August heat.
It doesn’t take much to make your porch feel fresh and inviting. With just a few plants and 15 minutes of potting, your porch will be photo-ready for those milestone memories.