Acer and bleeding heart container display

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

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

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

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

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

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.