July - Plants of the Moment

July - Plants for instant colour and displays

There are plenty of plants available in nurseries and garden centres now to add instant colour and impact to summer displays. Many are ready-planted in larger patio pots and hanging baskets that can be put straight outside to enjoy.

These bigger plants are often already in bloom, making them easier to colour-coordinate and match with planting partners, furniture and accessories.

And as well as ornamental plants you’ll find productive ones too, from pots of tomatoes, chillies and strawberries to vegetables, salads, fruits and herbs. Picking crops you’ve grown yourself boosts the brain, creating a feelings of wellbeing, and providing tasty produce to feed the family.

Look for:

• Bedding plants like Begonia, Verbena, Petunias, Pelargoniums, Lobelia, Argyranthemum, Dahlia and Zinnia.
• Hardy perennials like Geranium, Echinacea, Anthemis, Phlox, Astrantia, Salvia, Penstemon, Monarda, Helenium and Heuchera.
• Shrubs like Hydrangea, Brachyglottis, Nepeta, Lavender, Hebe, Choisya, Phormium, Cordyline, Yucca or climbing Clematis, Roses, Honeysuckle and Jasmine.
• Fruit and veg like strawberries, tomatoes, chillies and peppers, squash, salad plants and potted herbs.