Skimmia Rubella has dark green foliage producing fat red flower buds in September which stay on the plants until they open in spring. Another great plant for patio containers which can be moved around when the plant is looking its best. Planted containers and bowls. Instant colour can be achieved now by planting up some containers with spring colour. Primulas and Polyanthus are providing excellent colour at present in a wide variety of colours, spring flowering bulbs are available now from Tulips, Narcissus, and scented Hyacinths all of which are ideal for planted into window boxes and patio containers or for a blast of colour in borders.
Pansies are always popular for instant colour around the garden.
Remember Pansies planted now will give super colour until September and are available now in a wide range of colours. One of my own favourites is the free flowering Ranunculus with large rose like flowers in a mixed range of colours. Ranunculus is available now and will give colour until early summer, ideal for planted containers, window boxes and flower borders. Mix ranunculus with Pansies, spring Heather's, trailing ivies and spring flowering bulbs. As you know March is a great time of the year to plant new roses and shrubs, soil conditions are favourable right now and the warming of air temperatures stimulates fresh growth in all plants.