Once the first frosts have come, many gardeners will empty their tubs, baskets and containers and store them in a shed or garage over the winter months.
This is a tremendous waste of valuable gardening resources. With just a little forethought, these containers can be replanted to provide interest through the long, potential dull winter months ahead.
Select your tub/basket/container
The ideal container is a free draining ‘frost proof’ one, capable of withstanding constant freezing and thawing. Some terracotta containers are frost proof.
Alternatively, wooden or metal containers can be used, the former being the best option as wood will act as a better insulator, helping to prevent the roots from freezing during the most severe conditions.
Plastics may also be used, but many – particularly the cheaper types – will not appreciate the freezing and thawing process and will degrade after several winters of such treatment.
Generally speaking, the larger the container the better, as the larger volume of compost can act as an insulator to the cold during heavy frosts. However, during the coldest spells containers should be wrapped in sacking, bubble plastic or old carpet. They could be repositioned close to the wall of a house where heat radiating from the bricks, and the structure of the wall itself, will offer some protection.
Baskets can also be used, but being so much more exposed, they are far more liable to damage from freezing and bitter winds. The small volume of compost contained within the basket may be more liable to chilling too.
When selecting a basket, it would perhaps be prudent not to use self-watering types. This is because the reservoir of water is unnecessary in the winter and may encourage the compost to remain too wet or become sour. It may also freeze and cause the basket to split.
Compost
The next requirement for your containers, is good compost. You should use some sachets of controlled release fertiliser too, as this will feed the plants.
Which plants?
As a general rule, any plant that is hardy enough to survive in the winter in borders, should survive life in a container, bearing in mind the root space available. Therefore, plants such as the many varieties of ivy, winter flowering heathers, dwarf conifers, pansies, box, laurel, rhododendrons, hebe, cotoneaster, holly and crocus, are suitable.
Taller species planted in the centre of a round container add height, while trailing species soften the hard edges of the container and provide depth.
Watering should rarely be required, the containers being almost completely self-maintaining in many cases. However, if the container is situated close to the wall, the protection that the wall provides may also prevent rainfall from reaching the compost. The pots should be checked at least once a week and watered as necessary.
You will be able to find everything you need and free advice at your local garden centre. Click here to find your nearest and please abide by all social distancing measures.