Whip out exhausted summer bedding, put it on the compost heap and start afresh with late-flowering perennials that sizzle till the first frosts. Use new peat-free, multipurpose compost, and mix in slow-release fertiliser granules. Then browse the garden centres for plant combinations in complementary colours, sizes and shapes. Stick to the basic rules and you won't go wrong - start with a tall showstopper, and add two to three supporting plants in contrasting shapes and colours.
Tickled pink
The following combination delivers a vibrant hit of pink and purple, with shimmering silver foliage as a foil. Use a pot that's at least 30cm diameter and 40cm deep, and deadhead flowers for a long display.
1 Dahlia 'Park Princess' The explosion of pink cactus-type blooms on this sturdy perennial will go right on till October; 60cm high.
2 Slender vervain (Verbena rigida) loose habit and clusters of punchy purple flowers; 60cm high.
Esta historia es de la edición September 06, 2022 de WOMAN'S WEEKLY.
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Esta historia es de la edición September 06, 2022 de WOMAN'S WEEKLY.
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Perfect PIES
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Star STRUCK
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Beat the winter WASHING BLUES
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