Create a Show-Stopping Container Display
Have you discovered our new Pot Area with Terracotta, Glazed & Fibre Clay – All Shapes, Sizes & Colours?
Visit our extensive pot department just to the side of the plant area - bursting with beautiful pots in all shapes, sizes, and colours! Whether you're looking for something classic, contemporary, bold, or subtle, there's something for every garden or home, and every plant.
Pot Types to Explore
Terracotta – Timeless and breathable, perfect for herbs, Mediterranean plants, and drought-lovers like lavender.
Glazed Pots – Eye-catching and colourful, they retain moisture well and are great for statement displays.
Fibre Clay – Lightweight but strong, ideal for larger plants like small trees or shrubs where easier moving is a plus.
Choosing the Right Pot for the Plant
Trees & Shrubs (e.g. olives, bay, acers): Choose deep pots with wide bases to support root growth and avoid toppling—50cm diameter or more is ideal for mature specimens.
Camellias & Azaleas: Use pots with good depth and width (at least 45–50cm), and ensure they’re frost-resistant. These acid-loving plants prefer slightly moisture-retentive containers—glazed or fibre clay are great choices.
Hostas: These shade-lovers thrive in wide, shallow pots—30–40cm diameter is a good start. Terracotta or fibre clay works well, especially with a gravel topping to deter slugs.
Top-Dressing: Refresh Your Potted Plants
Already got a perennial, shrub or tree in a pot? Now’s the time to show it some love. Over time, pot soil settles and nutrients are used up. If your plant's looking tired or the soil’s dropped noticeably:
Scrape away the top 2–3cm of old compost
Top-dress with a fresh mix of compost and slow-release feed
Add a gravel or decorative topping to help retain moisture and give it a neat, polished finish
RECOMMENDED TOP DRESSING MIX FOR SHRUBS AND PERENNIALS
Multipurpose compost – for nutrients and organic matter. Try our West Country Multipurpose £4.99 / 3 for £12
John Innes No. 3 – ideal for established plants; heavier and long-lasting
Try: Westland John Innes No. 3 – £6.99 (28L)Grit or horticultural sand – improves drainage and prevents surface compaction from £4.99
Optional: Slow-release fertiliser granules to feed gradually through the season from £6.99
Apply in spring and repeat yearly to keep your plants healthy and thriving.
Gravel, Grits & Glass Beads: Finishing Touches for Every Pot
Top dressing isn’t just practical—it adds the final flourish to any display. Whether you’re dressing a large terracotta pot or a mini cactus on your windowsill, here are some of our favourite options:
GRAVELS AND STONE CHIPPINGS
Creamy Cotswold Stone Chippings – warm-toned and classic
£4.99 each / 3 for £12Alpine Black or Arctic Mist Premium Chippings – bold contrast or cool white for alpine displays
£7.99 each / 3 for £12
Perfect for outdoor containers or alpine rockeries, these gravels help with drainage while giving a smart, finished look.
POT TOPPERS FOR SMALLER PLANTS AND HOUSEPLANTS
Find these in the houseplant area:
Decorative Stones – neutral and natural textures
from £2.99 each
Decorative Glass Beads – clear, coloured, or frosted for a modern touch
£3.99 each
These are ideal for houseplants, succulents, cacti, and alpines—adding colour and shine while helping to prevent soil splash and discourage pests.
Pop in and explore - your perfect pot is waiting, along with all the top dressings and decorative finishes you need to make your plants shine.