Contrary to popular belief, most plants do not naturally enjoy growing in a pot and containers can be the most difficult places to grow plants. The first section of this book takes an in-depth look at the cultivation problems presented by containers and the special care requirements needed to overcome them: drainage, evaporation and watering; compost, soil depth, nutrients and feeding; plant support and staking, winter protection and pests and diseases.

Once you’ve mastered the essentials of successful cultivation, the next challenge is to create a beautiful display that will complement your patio, porch, balcony etc. The next section looks at all aspects of designing with containers: the different shapes, sizes and materials that containers come in; matching the right plants to the right type of container; plant combinations and changing displays for year-round colour – with special sections on hanging baskets, barrel ponds, permanent planting and growing edibles.

The main part of the book is a comprehensive directory of every plant you could conceivably grow in a container. Each entry includes a visual chart listing the best varieties and indicating when to plant, length of flowering season, spread, height, moisture requirements and hardiness. In addition, quick-access care charts provide a hit list of care requirements and problems to look out for.

Contents include:
– Introduction – cultivating with containers
– Planting Up
– Aftercare – watering, feeding, support, winter protection
– Types of Containers
– Planting Combinations
– Year-round Displays
– Hanging Baskets, Barrel Ponds, Permanent Planting, Growing Edibles
– A-Z of Container Plants
– Troubleshooting
– Pests and Diseases