Planting colourful winter containers

What to do

• Choose a pot that's large enough to support your plants and has drainage holes
• Select a design from our suggestions and buy any plants needed
• Fill pots with compost and add the plants
• Water regularly, as containers can dry out quickly even in winter
• Feed plants by adding controlled-release fertiliser granules to compost

Plant combinations to try

Perfect for an instant burst of colour

Choose a classic container such as this galvanised steel trug, and fill it with bright, clashing colours such as these pink primula and yellow ornamental peppers. This is ideal for a windowsill or doorstep where there's a reasonable amount of light but some shelter from cold winds or frost. Water sparingly.

Perfect for a subtle but elegant look

Using containers with an iridescent sheen brings a touch of glamour to these unfussy plants. The heathers (Erica ssp.) contrast well with the pure white berries of the pernettya (Gaultheria mucronata). Both heathers and pernettias are acid-loving plants, so make sure you pot them up with ericaceous compost. Water fairly frequently as this compost doesn't retain water as well as other types.

Perfect for a sunny, tropical style

This planter may look rather tasty, but the plants are strictly ornamental! The dark green foliage of the plants is the perfect backdrop for this combination of yellow peppers and winter cherry plants.

Perfect for a natural woodland look

A basket has been transformed into a container by lining it with plastic and adding some drainage holes. It was planted up with variegated ivy, deep pink pernettya plants (Gaultheria mucronata) and some pure white heathers. Water fairly frequently as this compost doesn't retain water as well as other types.

Perfect for a cool corner

The bold Mediterranean blue of these pots is usually associated with summer sun, but they also look great planted up with warm winter plants. A single colour scheme always creates instant impact - try this combination of cyclamen and Gaultheria procumbens.

Perfect for an alternative Christmas

Although olive trees may be associated with sunnier climes, they're surprisingly hardy. Dress up your olive tree by placing it in a terracotta pot and underplanting it with variegated ivy. It should be kept sheltered from cold winter winds, but makes a great alternative to the traditional Christmas tree.

Perfect for a warm welcome

These large red planters have been planted up in rich tones of red, orange and chocolate brown. It's a warm and inviting look that's easy to replicate. Plant a chocolate-brown cordyline in the centre of the pot and alternate orange flaming katy (Kalanchoë blossfeldiana) and red gaultheria procumbens around the base of the cordyline. Place in a bright but sheltered spot and water sparingly.