Now that the frost appears to have gone, people have been turning to their hanging baskets and what a huge range there are nowadays to choose from!
On visiting friends this week, they were “conveniently” about to start putting together their hanging baskets when I arrived – and needless to say, I ended up doing all the work - I am sure there was a secret plan hatched somewhere!
So, to help any more friends who may be needing some guidance with hanging baskets, I thought I would tell you what I think:
• First thing to do is to choose a decent compost, use one with a 6-month feed and that should keep your plants performing all summer.
• If you are guilty of forgetting to water your baskets, use a tub and basket compost as this has added water gel - or you could just add water gel to your original compost if you like.
• The biggest mistake people make when putting together their basket is to cram too many plants in; 6 plants are perfect for a 12-14-inch basket. I still love all the traditional basket plants best, ones like petunia surfinia, or million bells – now called calibrachoa and my favourite the amazing bacopa snowflake.
• It is always a good idea to put a centre plant in to your basket and work round it, I would choose a double begonia or a geranium.
Anyone can put together a beautiful planted basket – and that includes any more of my friends who may have secret plans for me! Happy gardening!
PLANT OF THE WEEK: CENTAUREA ‘AMETHYST IN SNOW’
Also known as ‘perennial cornflower’ this wonderful plant has the most beautiful thistle like flower heads – white with a stunning purple centre.
It is a spreading, herbaceous perennial with fabulous greyish green foliage which is covered in silvery hairs and is in bloom from late spring through early summer. It is a mat forming plant reaching a height of about half a metre and a spread of about a metre. It does really well in borders and beds and also can be used in patio containers
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