Shop-bought compost can be expensive – but not just for your pocket. The energy used to transport bulky growing media over long distances can be costly for the planet too. It can be a challenge to mak

Plant skimmias in pots so you can position them in spots where you can best see their attractive berries now, their pretty flower buds at the end of winter and blossom in spring. Skimmias do best in p

Winter’s here – the perfect time to tackle repairs and revamp spaces without breaking the bank

Make more thin-rooted perennials such as Japanese anemones, phlox and hardy geraniums with this method of root cuttings. Lift a clump of your chosen plant with a garden fork, select the best roots and

Stefan Buczacki

Will raking the soil help frosts kill pests? Moving wet winter soil does it no good, damaging its structure and making it more compact and slower draining. So although you might uncover a few slugs an