Fall in love with “flower power” plants

If it is “flower power” you are after then the lush Lobelia is the ticket.

This hassle free and exceptionally rewarding little plant is an essential companion to any bed, basket or container.

The look:

Although the colours are predominantly blue – purple, midnight blue, mid-blue, sky blue – you will also find rose, lilac, pink and white in the palette. Some are solid colours but most have a little white eye in the darker colours which is wonderfully contrasting. The foliage colour ranges from a dark bronze to bright green, depending on the variety.

The spot:

Lobelia should be planted in full morning sun as they appreciate a little afternoon shade. They prefer soil that is rich in organic matter so it is important that you add compost to the soil before planting. Keep the soil moist.

Plant some character

For another pop of colour, add some Torenia – also known as the wishbone flower – for a cheerful, bright touch with the cheeky flowers that look like they are pulling a tongue.

The look:

Torenia’s dainty blue, purple or pink flowers with yellow throats will brighten up your garden in their compact (30cm) bushes. They grow quickly so pinch off the new shoots early on to encourage it to bush out into a sturdier plant. They will need protection from any strong winds and for optimum results they enjoy being topped up with some plant food every two weeks.

The spot:

They are excellent for semi-shaded spots and are happy as edging or planted in beds, hanging baskets or window boxes. Remember to plant them in fertile, well-draining soil.

Mustard leaves for munching and mulching

Want to eat what you plant? Try some mustard leaves, which are incredibly fast growing and give a great flavour to your next meal. If you enjoy a strong mustard flavour, try planting during warmer months as the flavour becomes progressively less intense as winter approaches.

If your mustard leaves are starting to die in the cold, chop them up and mix them back into the soil, as rotting mustard tissue has been known to fight off some common soil diseases.

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