Dahlias come in a fascinating variety of shapes and sizes, and the pom-pom types, with their rows of incurved petals, resemble old-fashioned bathing caps. Dahlia 'Franz Kafka' lends itself - ironically, given its name - to a relaxed cottage-garden style, floating like balloons above the feathery foliage of Cosmos 'Sensation' and its delicate, pink petals.

Ad

Use a large container for this display, as this combination of plants reaches 1m in height. Prevent the planting scheme from looking too top heavy with a skirt of cerinthe. Its silvery blue leaves lift the dusky pink and purple flowers beautifully.

You Will Need

  • Dahlia 'Franz Kafka' (3)
  • Cosmos 'Sonata Carmine' (2)
  • Cosmos 'Sensation' (2)
  • Cerinthe major 'Purpurascens' (3)
  • Multi-purpose, peat-free compost
  • Old tin bath or bucket

Total time: 1 hour

Step 1

Lining the container with cardboard
Lining the container with cardboard

If you're using a metal container, line the sides with cardboard to prevent it from heating up and drying out the compost.

Step 2

Adding compost to the container
Adding compost to the container

Half-fill with multi-purpose compost and add gravel for drainage.

Step 3

Planting up the container
Planting up the container

Plant up the centre of the container with dahlias and cosmos, and the front and sides with cerinthe.

Step 4

Watering the container
Watering the container
Ad

Backfill with compost, and firm gently to remove air pockets. Water well and place in a sunny location.

Kevin Smith says...

Reclaimed containers are great for creating a rustic look full of cottage-garden charm. Tin baths and buckets are perfect for the job – just be sure to drill drainage holes in the base before planting.
Ad
Ad
Ad