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Acid-loving azaleas grow happily in pots of ericaceous compost, so you can enjoy these plants even without acid garden soil. They come in a wide range of colours, from deep red and pink to orange, yellow or pure white. Some even have a wonderful, spicy scent that will perfume you...

This rich mix of colourful, spiky and textured foliage and luxurious, velvety flowers provides a wonderful display all spring long. Position the box within arm's reach and you won't be able to resist running your hand through the grass! September - OctoberMarch20 minutesHair gras...

The silver and dark-green ivory thistles provide the backdrop for this planting scheme, while the pheasant's tail grass adds soft texture. Scattered amongst the display are Sisyrinchium striatum plants, with striped leaves that are accompanied by yellow flowers in summer. The day...

This container display will add a really summery punch to a sunny corner of your garden. Best known in pink or purple varieties, osteospermum is also available in zingy citrus shades, such as 'Orange Symphony' and 'Lemon Symphony'. In this display, these summery, golden flowers b...

Stand out from the summer crowd with this luxurious, rich and velvety container display. Pack a wide terracotta bowl with deep red Regal pelargoniums and earthy pink and orange flowers to stunning effect. Keep deadheading the flowers and they will reward you with continuous colou...

Rosa 'Rhapsody in Blue', heuchera and violas give the display a purple theme. This is gracefully lifted by the white highlights and scent of R. 'Boule de Neige'.November or MarchMay - September45 minutesRosa 'Rhapsody in Blue'Rosa 'Boule de Neige'Heuchera 'Licorice' x3Salvia x su...

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...

The sweet-smelling irises should be in flower by late-winter if the weather is mild. Before then, you can enjoy the foliage combination of the needle-like iris, the filigree ivy and the crimped fern. If you plant up this container feature in autumn you can use iris bulbs; if you ...

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...