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Sarah Raven demonstrates how to use ornamental kale in borders, to bring colourful interest over winter, with information on the different varieties available.autumnMore advice on growing brassicasHow to plant brassicasMonty advice on planting summer cabbagesTackling cabbage whit...

Shrubs and perennials planted permanently in containers need good quality compost if they are to survive for more than a couple of years. The addition of loam-based compost such as John Innes no.3 will retain a good open structure for plant roots to obtain air as well as moisture...

Learn how to give frost-tender plants the best chance of surviving the winter, by following Rachel de Thame's video advice, with tips on watering and where to store plants.October-NovemberMore on protecting plants over winterHow to protect tender plants for the winterHow to prote...

Brighten up your usual daffodil container display by adding a few low-growing, flowering plants. The dwarf size of celandines makes them perfect for containers and they look stunning against this blue-flowering corydalis. September - early NovemberFebruary - April20 minutesDaffod...

There are many plants in flower in February that can be used to create an instant spring pot display. Daffodils and primulas go together beautifully, and work well with the contrasting foliage of Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens' and a brightly coloured pot. If you buy the plan...

planting them.Plant the ivy along the front edge of the trough. Top up with compost, firming it around the plants with your fingers. Stand the trough on the patio or on a windowsill in full sun or light shade.AdamExtend your display once the ivies are over

The perfect symmetry of these two formal Christmas planters makes a rather grand frame for your front door. The box cones and lead planters might be a little costly, but you'll have them for life once you've made the initial investment. The display is perfect for a smart, city fr...

Traditional door decorations are beautiful at Christmas time, although it's sometimes tricky to illuminate them. No more - with battery operated lights, you can add sparkle without trailing wires or a power source. This decoration couldn't be simpler or cheaper to create. Just us...

This box pyramid container display with red lights and a skirt of red pansies has all the colours of Christmas. Tendrils of the mattress vine weave in and out to create a wreath-like effect around the base.November - DecemberWinter30 minutesTopiary box pyramid, buxus sempervirens...

The handsome, silver-leaved foliage plant cineraria adds sparkle to a dull winter's day, along with cheery variegated ivy, while brightly coloured red miniature cyclamen provide a vivid contrast and a festive splash of colour.SeptemberNovember - March20 minutesCineraria plants x2...