Many gardens have a shady area, containers can be used to brighten up such areas. Growing plants in containers is a extremely versatile way to provide colour and create a feature in the garden or on the patio. Containers can create a focal point or form a display at an entrance. They come or can be made in all shapes and sizes, they are a great way of introducing instant quick displays in even the smallest of spaces.

 You can use containers for permanent plantings of trees, shrubs or topiary, frost tender plants can be moved into sheltered situation during frosty or windy conditions in winter. Containers can be planted with seasonal plantings and each year you can change the variety of plants grown in them. Shade narrows the choice of plants you can use but those that do enjoy shade flower longer than when grown in the sun.

 Container grown plants rely heavily on the gardener to feed and water them so site them in easy reach of a water supply. Its a good idea to provide ample drainage in the container,  use a water retaining compost and add slow release fertilizer before planting. Plants in containers seldom achieve the height and spread that they would in the open ground so require planting more closely. Permanent container plants will require the top 3" to 6" layer of compost replacing each year but for replacement plantings it will be best to change all the compost each year.