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In this easy-to-make display, we've combined aloe with a contemporary planter to produce a simple but striking result. Aloe is a succulent plant which, although frost tender, will survive in a sheltered spot in summer. May - AugustMay - October30 minutesAloe variegata x4Decorativ...

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

Phormiums survive well in most conditions and there are some wonderful dwarf varieties that are perfect for growing in pots. For a cheaper, but equally colourful alternative to phormiums, you could use cordylines. By the end of summer the fragrant lime-green tobacco plants will b...

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...

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...

in height.Pennisetum 'Red Buttons'A striking blue grass with mounds of slender foliage and lovely silvery flower heads. Poa labillardierei makes an elegant addition to borders.Poa labillardiereiWhere to see grassesKnoll GardensRoyal Botanic Gardens, Kew

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...

border, so they will flower again next year.AdamBuy your daffodil bulbs in August or September for the best selection at the garden centre. Look out for named varieties of corydalis, such as 'Père David', as their flowers have the most intense colour

.Encourage climbers onto the support by tying stems with soft twine to the willow, leaving some give in the twine so that the stems don't break in the wind and have space to grow.AdamSnails like hiding in the willow and dense foliage, so get into the habit