Go on, be daring, try something different!

We all tend to plant the same bedding plants year after year.
Why not try something different this year?
There are a number of varieties that are less well known and as a result tend to be ignored by the majority of us.
Give the following a try - you'll not be disappointed.

Godetia is the most under rated of all bedding plants. It's not hard to understand why when you see it in the Garden Centre. In its tray it looks scraggy, thin and spindly yet once it's planted out it soon grows into a wonderful plant, full of colour and long lasting.

French Marigolds are one of the most popular of all bedding plants but there are less well known members of the Marigold family that are well worth a try.
Tagetes are taller than the French Marigold with smaller flowers.
African Marigolds are must larger plants than the French. The flowers last well and because of their size make a great centre piece in a Container.
The American (or Triploid) Marigold looks like a cross between a French and an African Marigold and in many ways shows up the best of both.
Remember with Marigolds that once the top flower dies off you should pinch it out to encourage branching. This greatly extends the flowering period.

Nicotiana is another plant that will surprise you if you have never tried it before.

Bidens is a basket plant that gives a riot of yellow flowers.

Borders, baskets and containers often end up a guddle of colour.
Try planting some white flowering or foliage plants to separate the colours and improve the overall effect.
Plants such as Cinneraria, Helichrysum and white trailing lobelia are ideal.

Article provided by Ron from West Carlston Garden Centre in Torrance.

Ron can be contacted at info@westcarlston.com

This week's Competition: Nicotiana is a member of which family of plants?

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