The Cotoneaster has set an enormous crop of deep red berries this year and the Pyracantha at the front of the house is covered in bright orange clusters – admired by us and no doubt spied by the Blackbirds ready for their autumn feast! Although they are after aphids, spiders and other small insects, a flock of young Blue Tits were performing their acrobatics in the Cotoneaster this morning – amusing to watch as they foraged amongst the berries! The change in temperature and autumnal look to the garden has got me thinking about changing some of the summer containers and replanting for the winter.
I do not plant as many winter pots, but as I have written before, I am very fond of Tulips and Daffodils in containers. They are a bright splash of welcome spring color and so useful to drop into gaps in borders for instant effect. Some of the bulbs have already been purchased for these pots and will be planted at a later date. The ‘Spring Green’ Tulips that I particularly wanted for the green and white borders were selling fast!
One container that I always like to plant up is in the open front porch – a colourful welcome for friends and visitors. This year I have opted for some wine red and white Cyclamen, along with a purple ‘Fountain Grass’ (Pennisetum). Trailing Ivies with a sliver and green leaf will add balance and soften the edges of the pot and I will also plant some dwarf Daffodil bulbs. Pure white ‘Niveth’ is the choice for this and the scented, multi headed flowers will bloom in March and April to herald the spring.
Another big pot in the back garden can be seen from the dining room and I am going to make a pure white statement with Cyclamen and Pansies under planted with white Tulips and more white Daffodils. This pot is nice and deep, so the bulbs can sit, layered up with plenty of depth. The whiteness of the theme will contrast with the weathered gray tone of the container.
Large leaved perennials are another favorite of mine for containers and once they are finished with, they can be planted out in the garden. The newer varieties of Heuchera are a far cry from the old seed raised ‘Palace Purple’; available in a range of zingy colours including orange and lime shades as well as the deepest purples. Their glossy leaves mix easily with other plants and create a reliable evergreen backdrop to spring bulbs and bedding. Bergenias (‘Elephant’s Ears’) also are a great evergreen in a container. They are sturdy plants with vibrant magenta, pink or white flowers in early spring – just the thing to plant with bright yellow Daffodils for a spring wakeup call! Many have beautiful winter coats of red or deep purple leaves that turn back to green as the plants begin to grow away for another season. Bergenias also do not like to be too wet – ideal for a pot that may not get much attention!
