Planting a mixture of different plants in one large container is an excellent way to achieve all year interest in a relatively small space. If you're planning a mixture of different plants in the same container, you will need to make sure they enjoy the same conditions, and that the container is large enough - at least 45 cm in diameter.

Choosing Your Plants

Although there are many plants to choose from, there are a few general tips you should consider:

1. Start with evergreens that will form the framework of the planting all year round. Use one main plant, such as Spotted Laurel (Aucuba japonica) with its shiny green and yellow leaves, or you could choose a dwarf conifer or junipers to give a strong vertical shape.
2. Then choose lower-growing evergreens that will grow to form a carpet over compost, such as ivies or heathers. You will need three to five of these to spread around the container.
3. Add seasonal fillers such as dwarf narcissi or bedding violas for spring colour, then replace these with summer bedding plants in early summer.

Preparing the Plants

Before planting your mixed container, make sure that you have watered the plants thoroughly. Leave the excess water to drain away whilst you prepare the container.

Preparing the Container

The container needs about five drainage holes at the bottom, which should be covered with a thick layer of stones or crocks. You could add a 2-3 cm layer of gravel or polystyrene chips to further improve drainage. The pot can then be placed in its final position, placing it on small clay 'feet' to improve drainage and to prevent staining of the patio.

Add compost to about half way up the container; break the compost up with your fingers if it is lumpy.

Adding the Plants

The focal plant should then be tipped out of its pot and positioned in the centre of the container, making sure that the final level of compost is at least 2-3 cm below the rim of the pot. Cover the rootball with compost and firm down with your finger tips. The smaller evergreens should then be spaced evenly around the container, then finally, the seasonal fillers added. Dry spring bulbs can be planted in autumn or potted up bulb plants can be planted in early spring. Water the compost with a fine rose after planting.

Container Maintenance

Make sure that the compost is kept moist by watering it when required; this may be every day in hot, dry weather. If in doubt, push your finger down into the compost, it should feel barely moist at all times. A liquid feed may be used from spring until mid to late summer; most liquid feeds are applied every week but slow-release feeds can be inserted into the compost only once, at the start of the growing season.

After the bulbs have finished flowering, lift them and re-plant in the garden. Fill the gaps with summer bedding such as impatiens - these will last until the first frosts.