Tools for THE JOB

Geoff Hodge tests the best hanging containers for indoor plant displays

BEST STONEWARE CONTAINERS Burgon & Ball Indoor Hanging Pots, £7.99 & £9.99

These waterproof, stoneware pots have a contemporary look and come with a leather hanging cord. (L-R/diameter x depth) ‘Wave’ is 10x8cm (4x3¼in), £7.99; ‘Dip’ is 12.5x11.8cm (5x4½in), £9.99; ‘Dot’ is 14x9.5cm (5½x3¾in), £9.99; and ‘Ripple’ is 11x10cm (4¼x4in), £7.99.

Supplier: Burgon & Ball, 0114 233 8262, www.burgonandball.com.

BEST PLASTIC CONTAINERS Elho, £9.09 & £9.69

The Brussels Hanging Basket (below, right) is a traditionally-shaped hanging pot with a ma finish. It measures 18cm (7in) in diameter and 16.5cm (6½in) high. It’s available in four colours – this one is Soap, £9.09. The b.for soft air container (below, left) is more unusual. This 18cm (7in) diameter ball has three 9cm (3½in) diameter planting holes, ideal for cacti and succulents, and a hanging cord from 50-100cm (20-40in). It’s available in five muted colours – this is vintage Blue, £9.69. Supplier: Elho, www. elho.com.

BEST GLASS CONTAINERS Plantpak Terrariums, £3.99 & £14.99

These glass terrariums can also be placed on a flat surface. The Glass Globe Terrarium (£3.99) is 10cm (4in) in diameter, with a 6cm (2¼in) planting hole allowing easy planting of a small houseplant or succulent. The Glass Pyramid Terrarium (£14.99) has a metal frame, contemporary geometric design and measures 15cm (6in) square at its base and 20cm (8in) high. The front side has a 11cm (4¼in) high opening for planting. Supplier: Plantpak, 02887 721009, www.crestgarden.com.