Summer pots and baskets

Food, water and pest control are so important, says Ruth

- Ruth Hayes

PLANTING patio containers and hanging baskets with bright summer bedding is usually one of the high points of the summer, but this year it has been more of a challenge than usual.

The exceptionally dry start to summer meant that watering was even more important than usual and needed to be done with more frequency.

This year has been slightly different as I have been using two peat-free composts in my pots. Dalefoot Wool Compost for Potting and Sylvagrow Tub and Basket Compost are both designed to sustain plants through summer without using peat, which is renowned for its ability to hang onto moisture and release it as plants need it.