Box and cyclamen Christmas pot display

Put safety first: be sure to buy lights that are safe for outdoor use, which usually means they'll have a transformer between the plug the first light of the string. The transformer converts the electricity to a lower voltage suitable for use outside, and must be positioned indoors. The wire on the 'outdoor' side of the transformer will be thin enough to pass through a window or door for a limited period, while still allowing it to close. Don't plug into outdoor sockets if the transformer will be exposed.

You Will Need

• Box cones (2)
• Miniature cyclamen (6)
• Senecio cineraria (8)
• Large pot or container
• Crocks
• Multi-purpose, peat-free compost
• Slow-release fertiliser
• Battery-operated fairy lights

Total time: 1 hour

Step 1

Put a few crocks in the base of the pots, half fill them with compost and add a fertiliser tablet to each one.

Step 2

Plant the box cones in the centre of the pots and carefully fill around the edges with more compost.

Step 3

Plant a senecio on each side of the pots, along with a cyclamen on each corner. Fill any gaps with more compost.

Step 4

Move the containers to their final position and water them well. Try not to let the compost dry out.

Step 5

Wrap the lights around the box cones. Make sure the bulbs are evenly spaced then connect to your power supply.

Kevin Smith says

No outdoor power supply? Don’t worry; it’s possible to create the same effect with battery operated lights. They’re available in all shapes and colours meaning you’re guaranteed to find some to match your Christmas scheme.