Parsnips roots will have reached full size by now, so you can begin harvesting them whenever needed. To get them out in one piece, loosen the soil around the roots with a garden fork beforehand, and i

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

How to carry on growing food over winter ...

Unfortunately, although they may not be as visible in the winter, the slugs in your garden are still there – just hidden away! Although they can survive a bit of frost, long, cold spells are tough on

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

While light levels are low, you might be holding off sowing herb seeds until the warmer months are here. But if you’re feeling impatient, why not grow a few microgreens like basil, coriander and parsl