Amal and George Clooney's Vibrant Greenhouse Teaches the Art of Container Planting – It's Perfect for Transforming a Small Space into a Jungle
The conservatory at the Clooneys' Oxfordshire home demonstrates the best way to use clay pots to bring fruits and flowers to life
'We have a really nice, little world right there, that's very private and very quaint and, really, the people are lovely, so I love it,' George Clooney once told The One Show, about his and his wife Amal Clooney's home in Oxfordshire, England. One glimpse inside their greenhouse, and it's easy to see why this is their tranquil escape.
Photos of Amal in the gorgeous conservatory show the human rights lawyer surrounded by potted roses, orange trees, and other vibrant greens. It's a masterclass in container planting. George and Amal's Sonning Eye paradise is a 17th century estate known as The Mill House, which they bought for a reported £10 million in 2014, shortly after their wedding in Venice. Though the orangery itself is grandiose, reportedly containing a custom photobooth for summer parties, the decor is understated and elegant. In addition to the beautiful terracotta plants, the Clooneys have furnished the space to serve as an extension of their home with a stone table and wicker armchair (similar to this beautiful one from Wayfair).
Shop Amal and George's Look
Rosa 'Paint the Town' has gorgeous big flower heads that rebloom for months. Add a bold splash of red to your landscape from late spring through the first frost of fall with a rose that stays compact and tight.
Arguably the most powerful way to follow the Clooneys' lead, this walk-in greenhouse combines style and practicality with a slide-in polycarbonate panel system and includes tools for quick, secure assembly.
Made from high-quality materials, these lightweight rolled-rim planters are built for durability and designed to withstand extreme weather. Made to last, they are an easy way to achieve Amal's look in your own space.
These knock out roses are celebrated as some of the easiest shrub roses to grow, delivering a season-long display of vibrant blooms. They would be gorgeous in a glasshouse for a beautiful green and deep pink display.
This beautifull shaped dining chair would elevate any outdoor table. It's stylish enough to use on any deck, but functional enough to last for years to come.
Amal brings height to the Oxfordshire country house with a gorgeous orange tree, and this Florida citrus tree from Amazon is a great way to recreate her look. Though it is not a plant for beginners, you will be rewarded with delicious citrus.
Though growing a plants in pots isn't rocket science, avoiding common container gardening mistakes will help your plants grow just as strong as Amal and George's. Horticulturalist specialist Jane Fairlie explains: 'Overwatering is one of the most common issues when caring for indoor and outdoor plants. A plant will often droop if it requires water, but generally only needs watering once a week. After watering, allow the plant to drain for around 30 minutes, then remove any excess water to prevent the roots from sitting in moisture, which can lead to root rot.'
She continues: 'Plants require nutrients to grow and remain healthy, particularly during spring and summer when growth is most active. A weekly feed is recommended during this period, and in warmer, sunnier weather, plants may also require more frequent watering.'
Furthermore, though this type of planting may be more low-maintenance than others, it's not enough to just plant and then leave the pots. Jane states: 'Repotting is necessary as plants grow. In some cases, plants may need repotting soon after purchase if roots are visible through drainage holes. However, it is important not to choose a pot that is too large, as this can result in excess moisture retention and poor root development. As a general guide, the new pot should be no more than 2-3 inches larger in diameter than the original.'
Though Amal's oranges require a more careful eye, there are plenty of edible plants you can put in your own container garden for a garden you can eat from just like the Clooneys'. Jane advises: 'A mix of potted herbs such as Rosemary, Thyme, Lemon Thyme, Mint, Lavender, Chives, Lemon Balm and Parsley works well. Most of these are woody-stemmed and well suited to outdoor conditions, although softer herbs such as Basil and Coriander can also be added during warmer periods.'
She concludes: 'When planting balcony containers and window boxes, lightweight composts are recommended. Peat-free composts are often lighter than peat-based alternatives, as they contain coir or wood fibre, which reduces overall weight once watered.'
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