Sumptuous summer baskets can be filled with non stop or trailing begonias.
Start the begonias into growth in a greenhouse, planting the tubers on top of the compost, hollow side up.
Three or four trailing begonias with a non stop bushy begonia for the center will make a wonderful display in a 35-40cm or 14-16in diameter basket.
For something different try begonia pivoted, a cultivar with an upright habit but large, heavy flowers, which create a natural fountain effect providing color all round the margins of the basket as well as in the center? Like all the tuberous begonias it will provide color from midsummer through to late autumn.
But be sure to take the basket down off its hook before the first autumn frosts and take it to the shelter of a frost free greenhouse.
Remove the top growth as the compost dries out and the stems break off from the tubers, and leave dormant tubers until growth buds appear in spring when watering can begin again.
The tulips and mascara are long lasting and make a wonderful contrast among the violas and pansies in a colorful hanging basket.
Empty the basket, save some ivy trails and replant along with the bulbs in fresh soil.
Severe winter weather can spoil autumn planted, spring flowering baskets because neither moss nor wicker lining provides much insulation.
In extremely cold or windy conditions, put the basket in a porch or garage.
Never water in frosty conditions.
It is better to keep all containers on the dry side in freezing weather as long as you keep the compost or soil mix just moist.
More moisture will be required in spring, when growth is taking place.
If you have used bedding plants, such as pansies, apply a liquid feed in early spring to encourage a good display to coincide with the bulbs.