Stepping outside
If you’re a keen gardener, ladders look lovely propped up against a tree trunk with potted pansies, cheerful polyanthus or bowls of spring bulbs prettying up each step. Change out for seasonal colour.
In the Victorian era, when dainty Dusty Miller primroses (Primula auricula) were popular with well-to-do collectors, these blooming beauties were shown off in special display boxes known auricula theatres. Ladders do the same job of providing bleacher-like seating for potted orchids or architectural succulents.
In early spring, when sowing vegetable seeds in trays or plastic punnets, arrange them on the steps of a north-facing ladder so they are exposed to all-day sun, allowing for quicker germination and strong seedling growth.