AUTUMN extravaganza
WOMAN'S WEEKLY|September 06, 2022
Refresh tired summer containers with plants that sparkle till winter
CHRIS MORLEY
AUTUMN extravaganza

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.

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