This is the third in a series of four blogs about planting in pots

Selecting plants by hand means we can choose specimens with a unique form, creating a special piece that feels exclusive to the owner and their property, rather than something seen all over London. Instead of the ubiquitous clipped bay or box we love to source different plants and one of my favourites is Rhododendron yakushimanum.

This is a fantastic plant that originates in Japan where it grows on the coast exposed to the wind and so has evolved a short growing height, along with a lovely rounded canopy and a look that exudes quality. We source plants 1.5 metres wide x 1.5 metres high then remove the lower branches and reveal the stems to showcase an amazing multi-stemmed character. As an evergreen it consistently looks stunning, come summer or winter, and in late spring is covered in flowers, a real showstopper!

Our secret to give our clients maximum effect, however, is managing the size of these plants through such skilful pruning that they always look exceptional. We planted Rhododendron yakushimanum on a project seven years ago and have pruned it to maintain its original size so that it looks very natural. Planted in a pot of one metre diameter we achieve a nice overhang, and this is also a very easy plant to look after in terms of feeding and watering. It’s also relatively pest free, which is another advantage. All in all, a really unusual option.

Another gorgeous choice I like to use for softening the front of a building is Amelanchier lamarckii. This is a British native tree with a fascinating stem character that we can provide in a variety of sizes for instant impact. It grows well in both a sunny and shaded situation and uplighting at night shows off its magnificent composition.

Planting in pots is just perfect for city gardens, a wonderful opportunity for creativity on a hard surface that is difficult to irrigate or where it is impossible to dig a flowerbed. They are utterly, bewitchingly transformative, and in my view better than any sculpture from an art gallery.

Talk to us about how we can help create an amazing space for you.

Call us on 0207 305 7183 or email at enquire@alasteranderson.com