Planting tips from our expert teams
Our arboriculture (tree) teams are expert at planting in Manchester. They've given us their advice on choosing plants for your home or community project.
Planting around pavement trees
Pavement trees are already in a challenging environment. So, we need to ensure that they have the best chance of survival. Adding more plants to tree pits means more competition for water, nutrients and space. Bulbs are a good option as they need less water than most plants and are dormant for most of the year.
Bulbs can be a cheap way to create a great floral display. Select types that flower at different times of the year and plant them together. This will give you flowers from late winter to early summer. Our favourites for tree pits are crocus, muscari, camassia and tête-à-tệte daffodils.
Planter gardening
Plants in planters have limited water, space and nutrients. Planters can dry out fast in full sun. So, it's vital to choose plants that can survive in these conditions. Fill the base of planters with layers of logs, sticks and leaves topped with compost. This mix can hold moisture and boost nutrient levels.
Mediterranean perennials are a good choice for sunny spots. We like lavender, rosemary and sage with creeping thyme for ground cover. Prune ‘woody’ herbs like these often, so they don’t get leggy and too large. Planters in shady spots will need plants that prefer shade, such as ferns.
Nasturtium are great plants to fill gaps. Sow seeds straight on to the soil and enjoy the cascading leaves and bright flowers that will appear. Again, bulbs are a great option for some early-season colour. And cyclamen can provide pops of colour even in winter.
Patio fruit trees can live in large pots. Use the largest pot you can. Choose a self-fertile variety (doesn't need other trees to pollinate). And look for a graft to a dwarfing rootstock (so it doesn't get too big).
Perennial or annual?
Perennials die back when their season is over but will regrow year after year. Annuals (and some tender perennials) die off when the weather gets too cold. That means they won't regrow and will need replacing. Although, some do self-seed. Using perennials helps to ensure that projects are sustainable. They can cost more, but can last for many years. Try nasturtium, calendula and snapdragon. They’re easy to grow and can thrive even in poor soil.
Plants for pollinators
Choosing plants that flower in different seasons gives year-round colour. It also attracts a wide range of pollinators vital for garden ecosystems. Insects like bees, butterflies and moths. Look for the Plants for Pollinators logo on plant labels. Find a full list at www.rhs.org.uk/plants-for-pollinators.
Free plants!
Take cuttings, collect seeds and allow plants to reseed. Let volunteer plants (from seeds spread by nature) grow to find out what they are. Share plants and seeds with neighbours and others in your community.
Grow a community garden
Want to get more hands on in your local community? Join a local growing group or get funding to start your own. Find out how to get involved.