Nandina, heuchera and berberis pot display

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Nandina, heuchera and berberis pot display

BBC Gardeners' World Magazine

Published: Tuesday, 2 July 2019 at 2:12 pm

Create a stylish, shade-loving display using Nandina, heuchera and berberis.

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A shady garden might seem like a challenge, but in reality there's a huge range of plants suitable for growing in dark places.

This container display is made using a bold selection of plants, combining different leaf forms, colours and textures. The Nandina domestica and berberis make an an eye-catching centrepiece all year round, with attractive flowers and berries, and fantastic autumn colour.

You Will Need

Nandina domestica 'Fire Power'
Heuchera 'Midnight Rose'
Berberis x media 'Red Jewel'
Viola 'Red Blotch'
Saxifraga fortunei 'Blackberry Apple Pie'
Large terracotta pot
Multi-purpose, peat-free compost
Slow-release fertiliser
Crocks

Total time: 45 minutes

Step 1

Adding crocks

Add crocks to the base of the pot to aid drainage.

Step 2

Adding compost

Fill the pot two-thirds full with compost.

Step 3

Planting up the berberis

Plant the berberis first, at the back of the container. Make sure it's level and planted at the same depth it was in its original pot.

Step 4

Adding plants around the berberis

Fill in around the berberis with the nandina, heuchera, viola and saxifrage plants.

Step 5

Filling in gaps with compost

Fill any gaps between the plants with more compost, firm down gently and water well.

Step 6

Watering the container

Water the plants thoroughly and allow to drain, before moving the container to its final planting position.

Kevin Smith says...

Create a designer look with impact by restricting your colour palette – this container combines plants that all tie into a burgundy theme for a display that’s full of style. Restraint takes will power but it’s worth it.

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