How to plant an acid loving shrub
A quick and easy garden project that will brighten up your outdoor space in an instant. Whether you choose a handsome acer with stunning foliage colour or an evergreen rhododendron with striking flowers, you’ll have an eye-catching focal point that will look good for years
Shopping List
- Your choice of ericaceous feature shrub
- Patio container
- Ericaceous compost
- Decorative gravel
- Hand trowel
- Watering can
Step By Step Guide
Choose a container to fit your space and style, from contemporary eco-friendly plastics, to a classic wooden planter, or a traditional terracotta pot
Pick your favourite acid-loving plant from our wide range of hardy shrubs. Many prefer a partially shaded spot so they’re great for brightening a shady area in the garden
Put a layer of crocks (broken terracotta) in the bottom of your pot, and fill with quality ericaceous compost to give your plant all the nutrients it needs
Plant to the same depth as the growing pot, topping up with extra compost as needed. Firm into place and water thoroughly
Add a top layer of decorative gravel for a neat finish and to help retain moisture and prevent weeds
Position in a partially shaded spot on your patio or doorstep for an eye-catching focal point to enjoy year after year
Top Tip: Water regularly and feed with ericaceous liquid fertiliser
Know Your Acid Loving Plants
Acer palmatum dissectum Garnet
Noted for its garnet leaf colour that turns fiery red in autumn, its foliage takes on a stunning feathery appearance. A lovely medium sized shrub, it holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit for its all-round excellent garden performance
Rhododendron Golden Torch
This smaller growing rhododendron is ideal for growing in pots and also holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit. Compact and evergreen, in spring it is covered in beautiful salmon pink buds that open into creamy yellow flowers
Camellia Anticipation
In early spring when there is little else flowering in the garden, this lovely Camellia is valued for its large rich pink blooms. With its glossy dark green evergreen foliage, it is a great shrub for shady spots all year round