RINGING IN SPRING
Helleborus x sahinii ‘Winterbells’ inspired this design, based on reminders of winter and heralds of spring. It flowers for several months and performs as well in a shady border as it does in pots. It feels moody and dark, and with the winter colouring of the ivy, fits perfectly in this old cauldron. Anemones are the epitome of spring and the dainty blue form of Anemone blanda lifts the colour and texture of the scheme while keeping it deep and dusky.
How to achieve the look
The hellebore displays a beautiful spectrum of colours in its bell-shaped flowers as well as the stems and leaves. I love the way it contrasts with the blue of the anemones. The purple stems and veined leaves also go well with the darker markings of the ivy, which leads down to the rusty pattern of the iron pot. The anemones lighten the feel and structure of the display, making it more interesting and acutely seasonal. You could also use white anemones, but I think the blue adds more depth. I found this cauldron buried in a border when tidying a friend’s garden years ago and love the colour, the streaks of rust and especially the shape. Hellebores do not like to be too wet, so drainage is very important. I drilled six drainage holes of about 5mm in diameter and covered with terracotta crocks and grit, but you could also use gravel to ensure good drainage. The compost is an equal mixture of John Innes No.2 and multi-purpose compost to keep the plants moist but well drained. This pot requires little maintenance, apart from watering, and I usually take off any flowers that have gone over and remove yellow leaves, especially as the anemones become dormant. I am sure this display would work well for another season, and if the ivy gets too dominant, just use a pair of sharp secateurs to keep it in check.
Plants 1 Anemone blanda
This anemone comes in a natural variation of blue, pink and white. It does well in the garden, likes the sun in spring and prefers moist but free-draining soil, ideally under shrubs or in a woodland position. February – March. 15cm. AGM. RHS H6, USDA 5a-8b.
2 Helleborus x sahinii ‘Winterbells’
Named after Kees Sahin, in honour of the founder of the Dutch seed company where it was raised. January – April. 40-50cm. USDA 4a-9b.
3 Hedera helix
Being evergreen, small-leaved ivy cultivars are invaluable for pots in winter and early spring. Ivy is easily propagated by cuttings and the size can be restricted by pruning. 2m. RHS H5, USDA 4a-9b.