Hmmm....Well, I don't have any experience gardening in your zone, so my suggestions might be a little...oh....off base....but allow me to take a stab at it anyway. :)

If it were mine, I would probably use a shorter form of Japanese Maple in the center, but from what I understand, it's popularity w/deer is hit or miss. But if it's evergreen you're looking for, Leatherleaf Mahonia (Mahonia bealei) may be a good choice. It is deer resistant, though multi-trunked.

I think that either tree would look great surrounded by New Guinea Impatiens with white and/or pink blossoms and red tinted leaves, finished off with cypress vine (Ipomoea quamoclit) cascading over the side (though you would probably have to train it a bit and I am not sure of its deer resistance).

Not knowing exactly how big the planter is (but I have a good idea), other suggestions would be cranesbills (there is one with very finely cut foliage that just looks wonderful), dwarf plumbago (Ceratostigma plumbaginoides), Vinca minor, small hostas, and coleus.

Hope this helps!
--Joe

Joe-

What a wonderful idea! I always wanted a Japanese Maple but couldn't afford the size I wanted. I can afford to buy one I could put into my whiskey barrel. You are absolutely right, some white or pink New Guinea impatiens would look great under a nice maple. After I read your e-mail I came across this neat link on another thread-http://www.sunset.com/sunset/garden/article/0.20633.674836.00.html. It mentions how great Japanese Maples look in containers. It also mentions some other trees but you hit the nail on the head with your suggestion. Joe, I live in CT which is zone 6. Since the planter will be heavy, would it be alright out in the elements this winter. Last winter was mild which was unusual. Also what would you suggest for soil. Right now I have regular CT soil with nothing good in there like peat moss. It gets very hard (it is very hard right now)!!!

Thanks again Joe,
suebot in CT

Suebot - You will definitely have to amend that soil. Japanese Maples demand excellent drainage and acid soil. As a first step, I would suggest removing the soil to a wheelbarrow or something and lining the bottom with a layer of gravel to help improve the drainage. Then, to the soil I would go ahead and add the peat moss (helps w/acidity) as well as a lot of coarse sand and maybe some organic compost or composted manure. As for how much of what to put in, you may have to experiment (or ask your local nursery) to get the drainage you need. I've included a link to an article that tells you how to test the drainage of a small amount of the mixture (as well as a good fertilizer regimen). I would start out with a mixture of half soil/half sand with some peat moss and compost thrown in and go from there.

I hope all that trouble doesn't discourage you from planting a Japanese Maple! That article you posted mentioned some good cultivars, but my favorites have to include 'Dissectum' and 'Waterfall.' Just remember that cultivars with perennially purple leaves need more sun than I think you can offer, but green cultivars will make up for it by putting on a breathtaking Autumn display!

I think your container would overwinter well outdoors. With the right soil mixture, I think it will reward you for many years to come.

Oh, and no matter what you ultimately decide to plant in it, can you post a picture of it when it's done? You've piqued my interest and I would like to know how it turns out for you.

Sorry for the long post! I tend to be a bit long winded sometimes!

--Joe

Here is a link that might be useful: Potting Japanese Maples

Hi Joe-

Thank you for all your advice. Yes is is going to be a Japanese Maple. I will follow your instruction regarding amending the soil. Do you mean regular sand? I can wait to do this up and when I do I will certain post some pics for you to see.

I love to spend time on these forums. I love to read but since I found these forums I can't get off the computer!!!!

I am addicted to all the wonderful threads. I love the clematis, rose,hydrangea, and New England forums among others. So much information and so little time.

Have a good night Joe...

suebot in CT

Sue - I think any sand you can find at the store/garden center will do. The larger the sand particles, the more oxygen retains in the soil.

LOL! I, too, just found these forums, and now I check them everyday! I just moved to San Antonio, TX (Zone 8B) from zone 9b in Florida, and I'm finding the people here are just great. Most of my plants are still in pots from the move (except the ones we inherited upon getting here) so until I can get some beds put in, I am living vicariously through everyone else! But, my current heated battle with spider mites and powdery mildew is keeping me busy...lol

Anywho, happy gardening Sue, and do shoot me a message when you get everything finished! Just post if you need anything else...

--Joe