For as long as the cultivation of alpine plants has been a significant activity, the need to imitate certain conditions of their natural environment has been apparent. To cultivate them to an acceptable standard requires a well-drained compost where the available plant foods are released slowly, low temperatures and the correct moisture balance. Light levels also need consideration, for one of the main challenges in growing alpines away from their native habitats is to reproduce the tightness of form and condensed appearance that frequently characterise healthy plants in the wild. Finally, when they do flower, it is not always at a time when viewing them in the open garden is convenient or desirable. Much can be achieved in the open garden, and the number of alpines that will thrive outside is certainly far greater than people have until quite recently acknowledged. But even given piecemeal winter cover, extra efficient drainage and well-judged planting positions, many alpines will, i