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In this pot design, the graceful astelia and black ophiopogon add structure, while a small-flowered blue pansy or viola unites the blue pot and the plants.
Plant it:
September - November
At its best:
October - March
Takes just:
30 minutes
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Mix together two-parts multi-purpose compost with one part John Innes No.3 and one part horticultural grit. This mix will provide lots of nutrients and good drainage, so shouldn't get too waterlogged in winter.
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Place some crocks in the bottom of the pot and cover with a layer of compost.
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Remove the astelia from its pot and position it in the middle of the display. Add compost and firm it around the rootball to hold it in place. -
Position the ophiopogon plants around the astelia, firming them in with compost, then add the pansies. -
Top up the pot with compost, leaving a generous gap at the top for watering, then firm the compost down.
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Water well, then mulch the compost surface with small pebbles for a decorative finish.
"Deadhead the pansies regularly to keep the flowers going through the winter."
