When winter arrives and most of the garden goes quiet, containers can start to look empty. But you don’t have to settle for a dull view. Planting winter-flowering pansies and violas is an easy and cheerful way to add colour to your pots and window boxes. These tough little flowers keep blooming through winter, bringing bright colour just when you need it. They really are the unsung heroes of the winter garden, greeting you with a splash of warmth even on the greyest days.

Pansies are great because they come in so many colours. You can pick from deep purples, rich reds, sunny yellows, bright whites, and even two-tone varieties to match your style. Mix different colours for a lively look, or stick to one shade, like all white or pale blue, for something more elegant. Use fresh peat-free potting compost and place your containers where they’ll get the most winter sun. Make sure your pots have good drainage to help prevent root rot when it’s wet. Use milk bottle lids to raise them off the ground.

Caring for your winter pansies is surprisingly straightforward. They are robust plants, but a little regular attention goes a long way. Make an effort to deadhead spent flowers regularly; this simple task will encourage the plant to produce more buds and keep the vibrant display going for longer, often right into spring. On milder days, check the compost and give it a light watering if the top inch feels dry, but avoid overwatering. Adding a slow-release granular fertiliser at planting time can give them the boost they need to power through the colder months. With minimal fuss, these resilient little beauties will reward you with months of stunning colour, proving that your garden can thrive even in the depths of winter!