I need help with pot plants please

Now, I am well aware that you boys would rather see fish, deer, ducks, boobies, etc. and don't really want to talk about flowers, plants, or gardens, but it does involve the outdoors so I thought I would post here. That, and 4lsu2 promised me an OB huggie if I hang out over here more.

So, we have this courtyard and my husband just dug up these two hideous tress/shrubs. He is thinking about planting some queen palms in their place, but it would rather plant about 2-4 big potted plants next to that area on the cement and just leave the grass area grass. The grass area is very small and our house and fence is right next to the area he wants to plant the palms. I just think it would be way too much tree in such a small area.

I know nothing about this subject--nothing. I'm sure I'm supposed to, being a woman and all, but I don't. I make a great sammich, and I keep my husband satisfied, but I just don't know anything about gardening.

So, here's my main question: if I find some of those big-huge planters I like, how do I go about planting something? Do I fill the whole damn thing with dirt? That seems like a lot and that it would end up waaaaaay too heavy. I think I've heard someone say to put styrofoam balls in there, but would that end up harming/killing the plant eventually?

I would love to have this little project done by the time my husband comes home from work today. I appreciate any help!