Plants in boxes and troughs need more care than garden plants - there's only a tiny volume of compost to hold in moisture and heat.

Watering:

• Watering is important - by hand or automatic irrigation (there are lots of patio irrigation systems on sale).



• Add a water-retaining gel to the compost before planting. The gel gradually releases water as plants need it.



• Self-watering containers are useful - but remember to top up the reservoir regularly.

Drainage and insulation:

• Waterlogged compost suffocates the roots and will kill them eventually.



• Waterlogged compost will freeze solid during frosty weather and kill the plants.



• Add drainage holes if not already there.



• Insulate winter boxes and troughs. Line the boxes or pack around the pots with bubble plastic or polystyrene packing chips, disguised with a surface layer of compost, cocoa shell or bark mulch.

Feeding and other care:

• The fertiliser content of composts is soon exhausted.



• Feed with a suitable fertiliser (eg a tomato fertiliser for flowering plants, fruiting plants or both).



• Deadhead for more flowers.



• Pinch out growing tips for bushy growth.



• For permanent plantings, trim trailers in spring if getting straggly, and in summer to keep in check.



• For permanent plantings, shear shrubs in summer to keep compact.