STEP BY STEP How to add grit and mulch

Dos and don’ts

✔DO check if the plants you are potting up can withstand cold temperatures.

✔DO move pots with plants that can’t stand frost indoors on cold nights, until late May.

✔DO make sure there are drainage holes in the bottom of the pot before you fill it up.

✔DO check the heights and

spreads of the plants before choosing them, so you know how much space they will eventually take up.

DON’T forget to water thoroughly around the base of each plant before adding the grit and pebble mulch on top. DON’T be afraid to plant the same plant more than once in the same pot. It can look very effective.

Key points

Planting a mix of different plants in the same pot is a great way of maximising a small space.

Adding an attractive mulch such as grit, slate or decorative stones to the compost surface will create a more ‘complete’ final display and will also help prevent weed seeds from germinating in the compost.

Find out more

Follow our guide to choosing plants for pots to help you find the right mix to suit the style of your garden

Place newly planted pots in a shady place on very hot May days to prevent heat-stress and help the new plants settle in well

1 Mix equal parts grit and peat-free multi-purpose compost when planting a pot with alpines and succulents. 2 Layer the top with 2cm of grit after planting to improve drainage. Finish with smooth pebbles.