Tabletop treats

Take a new approach to container gardening with Sue Kent's tabletop guide - the perfect way to create an easy-to-manage display that's full of impact

- Sue Kent

A large display of containers is common in gardens but, for me, big pots come with big problems. I find them difficult to maintain and move, and because I don't really garden over winter, pots often sit looking sad in the cold months. Weeds then establish, which I find difficult to remove with weak hands. I also find that traditional container plant combinations often look good for a couple of weeks but then one of the plants usually takes over, meaning further tricky maintenance is required.

My answer is to use individual plants in individual pots, then group the pots together on tables of various heights around the garden, creating easy-to-manage displays that still have impact - often at eye-level when seated.

I then change the plants with the seasons, along with their locations in my garden. It works for me and it could definitely work for you.

Sue's pick of tabletop plants

Compact growth habits, lower maintenance needs, long seasons of interest and a dash of drought tolerance are major planting themes for Sue's tabletop displays. Here are some of her top plant choices for best results every time.

Lagurus ovatus

Plants at table height not only enable me to look at and smell them, they also allow me to reach and touch them easily. Lagurus ovatus, also known as hare's tail grass, is easy to grow from seed, is fairly drought tolerant and thrives in pots. Its soft, slightly curled leaves bring forth small, furry, tactile 'hare's tail' flowerheads. Height x Spread 45cm x 30cm

Auriculas

Primula auricula are prize plants for April, doing well in small pots that keep their roots restricted. They need free-draining compost and do not like to be overwatered or to have their roots sit in water. I used 'Purple Pip' this year with Nemesia Melody Raspberry. H x S 20cm x 15cm

Edelweiss