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If you're short of sun in your garden but want an interesting summer display, try this rich blend of foliage plants. Both the plectranthus and begonias perform well in shade.April - JuneJuly - September20 minutesBegonia rex x2Purple

of different leaves don't immediately jump out, but offer a more gentle surprise as you come across them in the garden.May - JuneJune - August45 minutesPelargonium 'Lady Plymouth' 6cm pot x1Begonia 'Illumination White' x3Helichrysum petiolare 6cm pot x4

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

will quickly grow to hide the sides of the basket.Fill the spaces between the plants with compost, ensuring a gap of 2cm is left at the top of the basket. Firm down to get rid of air pockets, and water well.AdamUse a soil-based compost with water-retaining gel

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

Summer is the ideal time to take leaf cuttings from your houseplants. A single leaf can produce many young plants, and this technique is particularly useful for foliage plants such as Begonia rex.Healthy begonia plantClean, sharp knife and cutting

This rustic container filled with an orange pelargonium and a ruby red begonia is guaranteed to brighten up the gloomiest corner in your garden. Take care to keep the begonia out of the sun, or it will scorch. March - April June - September20