Here are some ideas for great trailing and hanging plants.

1. String of pearls (Senecio rowleyanus): This eye-catching plant produces strands which bear pea-like leaves, although it is fussy about watering, only preferring to be watered when the top 2cm of the compost is dry. Plant it in good potting compost in bright, indirect light. If you want to increase your stock, cuttings of this plant will root easily when pinned to the surface of a pot of cactus compost.

2. Burro’s tail (Sedum morganianum): This rich succulent, which produces thick stems of blue-green leaves that look like plaits, needs gritty soil and good drainage, sunshine and protection from extreme cold temperatures to thrive. Don’t overwater it, especially in autumn and winter, and avoid putting it in a bathroom or steamy kitchen.

3. Rhipsalis: This cacti, will happily trail over pots and down walls if put in the right spot. Unlike other cacti, it’s not a prickly plant, instead having what almost looks like a mop of hair. It needs plenty of light but not direct sunlight, preferring dappled sunlight. The mistletoe cactus (Rhipsalis baccifera) is the perfect cactus for the bathroom, favouring humid conditions.

4. Climbing fig (Ficus pumila): Also known as the creeping fig, this is an evergreen self-clinging climber with beautiful heart-shaped leaves. If there’s nothing to hold on to it will grow over the edge of the pot, giving you an attractive hanging plant, or train the tendrils along a shape to allow them to climb across a wall. Don’t place it over a heater or in a draught, and once it’s in place don’t move it because it doesn’t like change.

5. Ceropegia (String of hearts): A relaxing atmosphere is strengthened by hanging plants, including ceropegia, with its strings of heart-shaped leaves. Don’t overwater it because its skinny roots will rot. The best thing to do is to let this plant dry out in between waterings. Place it in a sunny spot and new strands should grow in the direction of the light. Trim the straggly bits to keep it tidy, as they can grow to 1.5m long. Pair it with tradescantia and rhipsalis in pastel-coloured knotted cloth and light pots.