Perfect Patios - Part 2

and Phormium (New Zealand Flax). (Although Phormiums are botanically perennials I have included them here, as they have the impact of a shrub). Deciduous shrubs also have a role to play - particularly if they offer autumn or winter interest. Examples include Japanese maples (Acer palmatum), Hamamelis (witch hazel) and Jasminum nudiflorum (winter jasmine).

Next come the 'permanent pretties' - perennials and bulbs. The best perennials are those with good foliage interest as well, such as Hostas, Heuchera, Helleborus, ferns and grasses. Bulbs to include are Lilies, Crocus, tulips and daffodils. In milder areas you can add more tender plants such as Agapanthus, Zantedeschia (arum lily) and Convolvulus sabatius.

Finally you can layer on the seasonal bedding plants for extra colour - pansies, petunias, busy lizzies (Impatiens), Primula, Verbena, Pelargonium (tender geranium), Lobelia, Nicotiana, etc.

Always bear in mind that plants and people are usually in very close proximity in a patio garden, so you might think it wise to avoid thorny and spiky plants, such as roses and Yuccas, and irritants such as rue.

For more information on growing permanent plants in containers refer to this previous article.

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