Alan Titchmarsh has named verbena bonariensis as the plant that will 'enhance your garden' this summer, praising its long-lasting purple flowers and appeal to pollinators. In a new episode of his Gardening With Alan Titchmarsh YouTube channel, he guided viewers through his latest garden projects, including completing a feature bed in his cottage garden.
Perennials and Annuals for Summer Colour
Alongside perennials, Titchmarsh planted cosmos, calendulas and poppies. He shared: 'I do love perennials and you know they're going to give you pleasure year after year. But at the same time, for the cost of a packet of seeds, which will have hundreds if not thousands in that little packet to produce plants like this, there's something deeply satisfying about getting enormous value for money, as well as bright flowers for your garden.'
Showing the finished display to camera, he added: 'These plants will really enhance our garden this summer.'
Soil Preparation and Planting Tips
Titchmarsh explained that he 'beefed up' the border with 'lots of soil improver' to give perennials 'something to get their roots into.' He advised gardeners to 'bear in mind how they're going to grow' when arranging mixed plantings, noting that when properly placed, 'they'll find their way through one another.'
'With all of them, the most important thing is you water them really well in these little pots before you plant them,' he added. 'And then once planting's over, give them another watering in.'
Verbena Bonariensis: A Star Performer
While filling a raised patio planter, Titchmarsh highlighted verbena bonariensis as a plant that will 'flower its socks off' this summer. He described it as 'the thin wiry one with little tiny pom-poms of purple flowers on the top that butterflies and bees love. They will flower their socks off right the way through the summer.'
He also recommended lavender for full sun and sharp drainage, and praised foxgloves (Digitalis) as 'really useful plants in either sun or dappled shade.'
Budget-Friendly Gardening
Titchmarsh noted that growing annuals from seed is a fantastic way to garden on a tight budget while adding a vibrant finishing touch to borders. The former Ground Force star continues to share his expertise via his YouTube channel, offering practical advice for gardeners of all levels.
