Acer and bleeding heart container display

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Acer and bleeding heart container display

BBC Gardeners' World Magazine

Published: Monday, 1 July 2019 at 2:39 pm

Find out how to create an attractive spring container display, using acer and bleeding heart.

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Acers don't like to be baked by the sun, so this container display is perfect for a sheltered spot. This particular Japanese maple has beautiful bright green leaves which turn a rich orange in autumn, but it's just one of a fantastic range of leaf colours and shapes available. The bleeding heart adds height and a splash of white against the green foliage, while the tiarella and ivy plants offer ground cover at the base.

You Will Need

Acer palmatum 'Katsura'
Tiarella 'Iron Butterfly'
Lamprocapnos spectabilis 'Alba'
Ivy, Hedera helix (4)
Rectangular container or old Belfast sink
Crocks
Multi-purpose, peat-free compost

Total time: 20 minutes

Step 1

Acer pot display - adding crocks

This container is heavy, so pop it in its final position before planting it up. Choose a shady, sheltered spot away from drying winds. Add crocks to the base.

Step 2

Acer pot display - adding compost

Fill the container two-thirds with loam-based compost. Add slow-release fertiliser granules if you want to, and mix into the compost.

Step 3

Acer pot display - planting the acer

Place the acer at the lefthand side of the container, towards the back. plant it at the same depth it was growing in its original pot. Firm in well.

Step 4

Acer pot display - planting the bleeding heart

Plant the bleeding heart at the righthand side of the container, towards the back. Then plant the tiarella in front of it. Position the ivy plants so the spill over the sides of the container. Add more compost and firm plants in well.

Step 5

Acer pot display - watering the display

Water the plants thoroughly and allow to drain. Top up with more compost if necessary.

Kevin Smith says...

This is a long-term display, so keep it in great shape with regular feeding. Liquid seaweed fertiliser as a great, all-round organic feed – just dilute it in water and apply once a week for the best results.

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