How to plant out lettuce

This potted display of rich purples marks a change in the seasons as the heat of summer begins to fade away. The velvety pansies steal the show, while the other plants create an interesting mix of colour and texture – a plain terracotta pot provides a simple counterpoint. The container is perfect for a semi-shaded spot, and the ajuga and fern can be planted out in the garden when the display is past its best. For more container inspiration, take your pick from our pots and containers to plant

Fill gaps in your summer planting displays with brightly-coloured lilies for a temporary, but timely, burst of colour. Plant lily bulbs into pots then simply drop them, pot and all, into arrangements on the patio, or even in your borders. You Will Need

Salad seeds are small, and best sown in rows outdoors. Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, you’ll need to ‘thin’ them, reducing crowding in the row. How to grow salad leaves Thinning your plants gives them space to grow to larger leaves and dense hearts. It also reduces competition between the plants for resources and improves air circulation. Aim to thin leaves when the soil is damp, as they’ll be easier to pull. Do it regularly until they reach the spacings recommended on the seed

You can’t beat this vibrant combination for an intense colour hit – it’s just the thing for brightening your patio and bringing a taste of the tropics to your back garden. All the plants will perform throughout the summer, with the display becoming more exuberant as the months pass. Don’t be afraid to be bold – this mix of intense colour is unashamedly chaotic, which is what makes it such a success. A bright glazed container adds to the drama. For more shots of colour, why not try planting up