Plants for a Purpose – Cut flowers for containers

Window boxes are perfect for smaller cut flowers that produce plenty of blooms without becoming too tall or heavy. English marigold, dwarf zinnias and snapdragons all work well in shallow containers. Their compact growth habit keeps displays neat and provides plenty of brightly coloured flowers for cutting. Cutting the stems also encourages the plant to produce more flowers.

Trailing plants such as nasturtiums and bacopa soften the edges of window boxes. They can also be used in cut flower arrangements.

You can also try compact cultivars of plants that produce slightly taller flowers, such as cornflowers. These are long-lasting in a vase. Examples include Centaurea ‘Blue Diadem’ or ‘Classic Magic’. For something scented and unusual, try dwarf sweet peas such as ‘Little Sweetheart’. They grow to a maximum height of only 30cm.

For taller cut flowers with strong root systems, you’ll need deep containers. Dahlias, sunflowers, snapdragons and rudbeckia thrive in larger containers. They have enough space to develop properly there.

Adding bamboo canes or discreet supports early in the season keeps stems upright. This improves the quality of cut flowers later on.

Raised wooden planters allow gardeners to grow a wider mix of flowers together. This creates a mini cutting garden in one space. Combining cornflowers, scabious, cosmos and nigella creates a natural cottage garden effect. It also provides a steady supply of stems for arranging indoors.

Raised containers also improve drainage. They make deadheading and harvesting easier throughout summer.

While not traditionally used for cut flowers, hanging baskets can still provide useful trailing stems and delicate filler flowers. Lobelia, trailing petunias, verbena and bacopa are all excellent for adding softness and texture to homemade bouquets.

Hanging baskets are especially useful in smaller outdoor spaces where ground space is limited.

Long trough-style containers are perfect for sweet peas. They provide the deep root run these fragrant climbers need. With regular feeding and picking, sweet peas can produce flowers for weeks throughout summer.

Obelisks or decorative supports added to troughs can also create attractive vertical displays. These work well on patios and terraces.

Galvanised tubs and larger metal containers are excellent for informal cutting gardens packed with seasonal colour. Zinnias, chrysanthemums, asters and dahlias all thrive in these roomy containers. Their rustic appearance works beautifully in country-style gardens and outdoor entertaining areas.

Good drainage is essential when using metal containers. Add drainage holes, plus a layer of gravel, to help prevent waterlogging. Raising the container off the ground with bricks can also help.

Container-grown cut flowers need more regular watering and feeding than those planted in borders. Using high-quality compost helps maintain healthy plants and continuous flowers. Feed weekly during the flowering season with a high-potassium fertiliser.

Regular deadheading also encourages plants to keep producing fresh flowers for cutting.

With thoughtful planting and the right choice of containers, even the smallest outdoor space can become productive and beautiful. It can bring weeks of joy throughout the summer months.