Use this month to brighten your winter outlook by planting seedlings in stoep containers and window boxes for a cheerful display. There are various flowering annuals that thrive in the winter chill. While your winter planting endeavours can be simple and tasteful, we’re partial to audaciously bright flower combinations that will have you thinking that spring has sprung – even on the greyest of days.

You should have some (pot) luck with these winter-hardy plants:

STOCKS These hardy, old-fashioned favourites are deliciously scented and come in various colours.

PANSIES Pansies come in a profusion of colours. Place their container in full sun in winter. 

CYCLAMEN This plant has heart-shaped leaves, and its flowers range from magenta to white and many pinks in between. They do well in full or partial shade.

Pretty pots:

These containers are available at Mr Price Home at R29,99 each.