I need to know if anybody has ever tried this. I have tried growing hostas in the ground here and lost them all, but in pots they usually do fine. I am very careful when I plant them not to cover the crown. One of the hosta experts has suggested that the tree roots from well established trees are the problem. So instead of having a myriad of pots everywhere I am wondering if I should try large metal tubs like they sell at Tractor Supply for watering livestock and make it look like a raised bed.
I don't have the money to create a real raised bed with a rock edge and even if I did the tree roots would eventually work their way into the bed. The spot where I want to do this is a long way from the trees, probably 40 feet, so I am not concerned about smothering tree roots.
If I do this I do want to plant perennials of some kind that will somewhat cover up the sides of the tubs. I think DH will really object to this idea otherwise. So I have to figure out what will take our heat and give good cover and not be invasive. I also have to figure out how to prepare the ground so that the tubs don't sink into the soil. Every time I put a pot in the yard it sinks and starts to look lopsided.
I am not in a hurry to do this. I know it'll be fall at least before I'll even have the time. And I want to be sure I think it through very well.
Thanks very much for your attention and advice.
