Gardening guru Alan Titchmarsh has unveiled his foolproof method for creating eye-catching hanging baskets that burst with colour all summer long. The beloved horticulturist insists that achieving professional-looking displays doesn’t require expert skills – just a few clever tricks.
Less Is More
Contrary to popular belief, Titchmarsh advises against overcrowding baskets. "People often cram in too many plants," he explains. "Five well-chosen specimens will create a far more balanced and long-lasting display than a dozen competing plants."
The Golden Formula
For guaranteed success, follow Titchmarsh’s simple formula:
- 1 thriller (a tall, dramatic centrepiece)
- 1 filler (a bushy plant to add volume)
- 3 spillers (trailing plants to cascade over the edges)
Drought-Resistant Choices
With British summers becoming increasingly dry, Titchmarsh recommends opting for drought-tolerant varieties like:
- Pelargoniums (geraniums)
- Bidens
- Calibrachoa (million bells)
- Lobelia
- Bacopa
Pro tip: Incorporate water-retaining crystals into your compost to help plants survive hot spells.
Feeding for Success
"The secret to continuous flowering is regular feeding," reveals Titchmarsh. He suggests using a liquid tomato fertiliser every 10-14 days to keep plants thriving throughout the season.
With these expert tips, even novice gardeners can create show-stopping displays that will be the envy of the neighbourhood.
