Now that warmer temperatures have finally arrived, you’re probably itching to get outside and start planting. But what if you don’t have a lot of space to work with or a lot of time?

Container gardening is an easy way to add splashes of color to all your outdoor spaces, including the deck, patio, porch or windowsill, and it’s really as easy as 1-2-3. One, plan ahead; two, plant your containers; and three, maintain them.

Whether you’re a first-timer or veteran, here are some tips for getting the best looking flower pots in the neighborhood.

Begin by thinking about the color schemes you’d like to use to enhance your patio or deck. For instance, ask how will the flowers on your deck accent your kitchen’s decor? Also, think about what you planted last year, what worked and what didn’t and what exciting new varieties of flowers and plants are available.

Next, consider your light conditions and what plants work well together. A shade foliage plant won’t grow well in conditions appropriate for a geranium, for example. Toy with interesting textures and leaf colors in addition to bloom colors. A variety of foliage can add unique depth.

Herbs and vegetables are becoming a popular trend. A corn plant by itself, for instance, as the main focal point is rather stunning. Snow peas growing up a post create curiosity. Purple basil, arugula, oregano and nasturtium are all lovely flowering edible plants.

When it comes time to plant your containers, remember that trying to grow anything in containers with dirt from outside is a recipe for disaster. Gardening expert Felder Rushing, a horticulturalist from Mississippi who has written or co-authored 15 gardening books, says it’s imperative that you use quality potting soil if you want your plants to thrive.

“The expense can be a turn-off though, so I recommend people make their own,” Rushing said. “For the most simple mix, all you need is a bag of cheap potting soil with some finely ground bark mulch. Mix the two 50/50 and you’ll be all set.”

No matter what you plant, Rushing stresses that plant roots need air in order to take in water and nutrients. “Pots with clogged drainage holes are plant killers,” he said.

“Roots, potting soil or other debris can keep water from draining out of pots, which can lead to root drowning or even root rot. Every pot needs a clear drain hole,” according to Rushing.

Some materials used to assist drainage are rocks, broken terra cotta pieces and packing peanuts. Many times these don’t work because soil runs down into the crevices and blocks the drainage you so diligently tried to create. Also, once the pots are filled with rocks, soil, plants and water, they can get very heavy and hard to move.

One alternative Rushing said is Better Than Rocks – a non-woven, 100 percent recycled and reusable plastic mesh. This is a new planter drainage material that is placed in the bottom of containers. It is available in precut squares that can be used in either square or round containers. The material is very flexible so there is no need to trim the squares into circles. Better Than Rocks is also available in a large roll that you can cut to your desired size to fit planters precisely or to accommodate any odd-shaped planters.

Not only will your pots be lighter, you’ll use up to one-third less soil in each pot. And, because it creates a pocket of air within the planter, Better Than Rocks helps provide the critical oxygen your plants need to thrive. Optimal drainage leads to superior plant health and more blooms.

Once your drainage system is in place, fill the pot with potting soil so the middle third of the pot is full, leaving four to five inches for plants. Next, take the plant plugs and set them in the pot. Start with the taller, wider center plant. Then place the next largest plugs around the perimeter, and balance them according to color and size with the smallest placed last. Rearrange until you are satisfied, fill with soil and water thoroughly.

As your containers bloom and grow, give your plants a “haircut.” Pluck off dead blooms and trim leggy growth to keep your containers blooming well into the fall. Keep your plants watered and fertilize regularly.

When it’s time to put everything away for winter, dump your pots out. This soil is ideal to top off your perennial beds or add to your compost. When using Better Than Rocks, you won’t have to pick out the rocks or other material from the bottom of the pot. Pull out the mesh layers and cut off any roots that may have grown into it. Roots that have grown into the material will dry out over the winter and come out easily the following spring. You can then reuse the material year after year.