Colourful witch hazel, primulas and euonymus all offer cheerfulness at this chilly time of year
PHOTOS PAUL DEBOIS
A harbinger of spring
As we approach a new season and the first splashes of spring colour begin to emerge across the garden landscape, this pot perfectly encapsulates that hopeful scene. The witch hazel (hamamelis) takes centre stage, bursting with fragrant flowers, while variegated ivy tumbles over the side. Both are useful for wildlife, offering nectar and shelter.
The evergreen euonymus with its white-tipped leaves looks almost frost-kissed, brightening even the darkest corner. It also acts as a staple for yearround foliage when swapping out seasonal flowers.
There’s a huge range of primulas to choose from – plant in flower now to enjoy until spring, then move to a spot under a tree. Add a few precious snowdrops (galanthus) too, then transplant after flowering, while still in leaf, to naturalise in dappled shade and provide nectar for emerging pollinators.
TOP TIPS
Snowdrops are very delicate, so gently tease apart the clump and carefully insert individually.
Prevent trailing ivy rooting into paving gaps by trimming back new growth on longer stems.
WE USED
➊ Hamamelis mollis x 1
❷ Euonymus japonicus ‘Kathy’ x 2
❸ Galanthus nivalis x 3
❹ Primula veris ‘Little Red Queen’ x 2
❺ Polyanthus ‘White’ x 3
❻ Hedera helix ‘Glacier’ x 2
❼ Container approx. 40cm diameter