Get it right

Plant in ericaceous compost, or the foliage becomes unattractively yellow and sickly (chlorotic). Add a measure of slowrelease fertiliser (right). Ensure the pot is large enough for the roots and plant to spread. Handle the plant carefully (below), especially when in bud or flower. Tease out the roots gently. Water weekly with rainwater in summer. Feed with weak liquid twice in late spring. An annual mulch spread on the compost surface will help retain moisture. Avoid placing in strong afternoon sun, an exposed windy site or an east-facing spot where it could dry out or the flowers get scorched by the sun on a frosty morning.