Today 
Tomorrow
Give a shady area a lift by combining three striking plants - begonia, pelargonium and fern. Although unlikely bedfellows, they all enjoy a lightly shaded spot and make an impressive display. The begonia and fern provide interesting shape and texture, while the delicate pelargonium flowers add a splash of colour.
Plant it:
May
At its best:
May - September
Takes just:
30 minutes
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Drill holes in the bottom of the bucket and arrange the pot shards over them to allow drainage. -
Use a measuring jug to gauge how much compost you'll need for the bucket and then, following the packet instructions, add the correct amount of water-retaining gel and slow-release fertiliser. Thoroughly mix them into the compost. -
Knock the plants out of their pots and arrange them in the bucket - remember they will only be seen from one angle. Then fill them in with compost. -
Water the pot well to fully soak the water-retaining gel. Keep the container looking fresh by deadheading the pelargoniums regularly to encourage more flowers.
"Before the first frosts, remove the begonia and pelargoniums and pot them up for use indoors. The fern can be re-planted in the garden."
