Iris, ivy and fern pot display

You Will Need

• Purple iris plants (3)
• Hart's tongue fern (3)
• Bird's foot ivy (3)
• Window box
• Driil, optional
• Crocks
• Gravel or pebbles

Total time: 30 minutes

Step 1

If no drainage holes are present, drill a drainage hole in each corner of the box. Cover the base with crocks followed by a thick layer of gravel or grit, then fill it two-thirds with compost.

Step 2

Remove the ferns from their pots and tease out the roots. Position them in the trough, making sure they're evenly spaced.

Step 3

Knock the iris plants out of their pots and tease out the roots before planting them.

Step 4

Plant the ivy along the front edge of the trough. Top up with compost, firming it around the plants with your fingers. Stand the trough on the patio or on a windowsill in full sun or light shade.

Kevin Smith says...

Use a contemporary metal container to create an urban look with a bit of edge. Line the pot with bubble wrap if you’re positioning it in a hot spot – this will prevent the plants’ roots becoming damaged by hot metal.