“When in doubt – plant a geranium!” declared plantswoman and gardener Margery Fish, and her advice remains as true today as ever. Hardy geraniums are as reliable as they come, blooming for weeks in summer (and often come back for a second flush if you cut them back after flowering). They cope with all kinds of soil, sun or part shade, and smother the ground with masses of flowers in pink, white, blue or mauve. If you’re stuck for the right plant to fill a gap, a geranium is probably what you need: pop down to the garden centre and you’re sure to find the perfect one for the job.