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by the silver leaves of the cascading dichondra, which are even more lustrous in full sun. Water generously - twice a day if it's really hot - and feed regularly to promote new flower growth and ward off mildew in the verbena.May - JuneJune - August30 minutes

of plectranthus. Position the basket in a sunny spot and keep it looking good by regularly deadheading flowers and removing any faded begonia leaves. Pinch out the plectranthus from time to time to keep it bushy. May - JuneJune - August30 minutesBegonia 'Pink Wave

different foliage textures and shapes on long trailing stems, with highlights of large double begonia flowers and tiny white stars of sutera. The basket can be hung from a tree or garden structure away from the house, where the calmer colours and blend

pollinating insects.Water well to settle the compost and encourage the roots to grow. Start feeding once flowering has finished.AdamMix water-retaining gel and slow-release feed granules into the compost before planting.Don't plant strawberry plants too deep

minutesLarge, deep pot, at least 40cm tall and 60cm diameterCrocksLoam-based compost, such as John Innes No. 34 parrot's beaks, Lotus berthelotii4 trailing begonias1 honey bush, Melianthus major2 bananas, Musa basjooCover the bottom of the pot with crocks

in a cool, lightly shaded spot.AdamWhen it's flowered, cut back the begonia and move it indoors. The ferns can be repotted or enjoyed in the garden.More planting combinations for shadeGrowing shade-loving acer and ajuga.Grow plants for shade

and texture, while the delicate pelargonium flowers add a splash of colour.MayMay - September30 minutesAthyrium nipponicum pictum x2 Begonia 'Escargot'Pelargonium 'Deerwood Lavender Lass' x2Drill Old metal bucket and crocksCompostWater-retaining gel

Hostas reign supreme when it comes to striking foliage. All hostas look great in containers, but for something a little more unusual, try Hosta nigrescens. Its upright habit makes an eye-catching patio feature.May - JuneJune - August30 minutes Hosta nigrescensLarge, glazed contai...

Aquatic planting basket, 20cm diameter x2Aquatic compost or heavy loamEngineering bricks x2Prepare your container by filling in any holes in the bottom with waterproof sealant. Leave to dry, then paint the inside of the pot with waterproof paint. When that is dry

scabious echoes its purple accents from mid- to late-summer. Above these plants arch the leaves of the grasses, gently swaying in a summer breeze.March - April June - September20 minutesSedge, Carex buchananiiBlue fescue, Festuca glauca x2Scabious x2Thrift