WINTER POT TIPS
Use fresh, top quality container mix, not garden soil.
Plant generously. A full container has the most impact!
Check drainage. Raise large pots on pot feet or bricks. Remove any saucers from outdoor plants.
Remove spent flowers to encourage continuous flowering. If autumn planted pansies get tatty over winter, trim and feed to bring on a fresh flush of flowers.
Most container mixes come with nutrient to last three months, but with heavy rain this may be reduced. Supplement with controlled-release or liquid fertiliser to keep flowers coming in spring.
Pansies, primula and cyclamen will flower in part shade, but generally more sun means more flowers.
Beware of slugs and snails. Apply slug bait if necessary.