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. Wind the fairy lights around the box pyramid, switch on and enjoy.AdamShrubs and perennials in pots need loam-based compost if they are to survive for more than a couple of years. Give them a boost every six months with slow-release fertiliser

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

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 boardPotsFree-draining compost, ...

This colourful display of bronze-coloured foliage, orange flowers and the red berries of the skimmia will warm up any cold or dull winter's day. You can vary the colours with other varieties of phormium, heuchera and pansy if you prefer, but all will look good into the spring. Se...

to nourish them.AdamBoth the skimmia and the heuchera will be happy planted out into a shady spot in the garden in spring.Inspiration and jobs for winterCreating a winter display of dogwood, snowdrops and lilyturf.Winter-pruning wisteria.Wrapping bananas

.December - Januarywinteran hourSnowdrop, Galanthus elwesii 10cm pot x3Ophiopogon nigrescens x2Convolvulus cneorumPeat free, multi-purpose compost25cm terracotta potMetallic silver paintPolystyrene or crocksCover your garden table with newspaper and spray a clean pot

Alpine strawberries are smaller and more delicate than ordinary strawberries. They have an exquisite flavour and perfume, so are ideal as a striking display as well as a source of food. This alpine strawberry display looks especially pretty scrambling through the daisy-like plant...

into a sunny, well-drained spot in the garden.More herb and hanging basket projectsCreate a lavender garden.Learn how to grow basil from seed.Plant peppermint and thyme plants in a container.Follow our advice on picking herbs.Pot up a traditional hanging

In a large pot, mix together a rich purple osteospermum with zesty yellow and orange bidens, lantana, portulaca and California poppies for the perfect summer cocktail.springJune - August 40 minutesOsteospermum 'Malindi'Lantana camaraCalifornia poppy, such as Eschscholzia californ...

Bring life to a shady corner with this mix of shade-loving favourites. There are hundreds of fabulous hostas to choose from. At the back of the planter the green fern adds strong textural contrast. If you can't live without flowers, mix in some violets; they'll bloom all spring i...