With some planning, you can put together a festive winter display that brightens any patio or doorstep. Skimmia japonica ‘Rubella’ is a great choice for this. This evergreen shrub has striking red flower buds that stand out in winter, and its shiny dark green leaves and compact shape make it perfect for containers.

To begin your winter display, choose a container that is appropriately sized for your Skimmia. A pot with a diameter of at least 30-40cm (12-16 inches) will allow enough space for the plant to thrive and for you to add complementary winter accents. Ensure the container has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging and raise it off the ground using some milk bottle lids. Fill the bottom quarter of the pot with a layer of crocks or gravel to improve drainage further, then top with a good quality, well-draining peat-free ericaceous compost, as Skimmias prefer acidic soil conditions.

Carefully remove your Skimmia japonica ‘Rubella’ from its pot, gently tease out any tangled roots, and position it in the centre of your chosen container. The top of the root ball should be level with the soil, but slightly below the rim of the pot, so when watering, the water does not flow out over the sides. Fill around the roots with more peat free ericaceous compost, firming it gently around the plant to remove any air pockets. Water thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil. For that extra winter flair, consider adding some decorative elements, such as a mulch of small pinecones to create a truly enchanting and festive arrangement that will last all season long.