Diarmuid Gavin: How to get your summer hanging baskets blooming

From begonias to geraniums, plug plants are a less-expensive way to create a colourful display

Begonias are a great choice for your summer hanging baskets — © Getty Images/iStockphoto

Diarmuid Gavin

It’s time to get started on your hanging baskets, pots and containers so you will have plenty of flowers this summer. I’m often asked what are the best plants for hanging baskets, pots and containers, and rather than different types, I make my choices on how they perform.

So my favourites are those that flower for the longest periods, starting at the end of spring and only fading away at the beginning of autumn. I’m not too fussy about colour combinations — I love having fun mixing everything up to make relaxed and exuberant displays.