Why do some seeds germinate more speedily than others?

They might not be especially striking to look at–if you can see them at all–but seeds are among the natural world’s most awe-inspiring marvels, says John Lewis-Stempel

Autumn may be here but it’s the perfect time to fill your garden with fresh, new plants

Looking after roses Cut back shrub ...

Why were some of our sunflower heads deformed? ...

Toby explains how plants and trees set up natural defences and outlines what we can do to help

There is a plum tree growing wild on wasteland with delicious fruits borne on its many suckers. If I dig up a sucker can I grow this tree in my garden or do I have to make a graft? Self-seeded plum tr