Alina W

where to keep dianthus

They should be fine in the mini-greenhouse as they are hardy.

Black Slime in Grass

It may be a form of slime mould. Slime moulds are harmless to grass, and no treatment is necessary - you can blast them away with a jet of water, as you have been doing.

A possible cause is lack of nutrients in the soil, possibly caused by this year's heavy rain. You may well find that it vanishes next year.

Talkback: How to grow orchids

Water when it's dry - look at the roots around the outside of the pot. If they don't look green and vibrant, then water. You will find that it's between every 2-3 weeks.

Re-potting acers

As long as the area you've picked doesn't get waterlogged it should be absolutely fine. Prepare the area by digging out a hole twice the size of its pot and mix the soil with some good compost, plant at the height it was and, if it's large, give it a stake until it's had the chance to put down its roots.

What's the weather like in your area?

Cold and overcast here in N Yorks - and predicted to sleet/snow tonight My fuchsias will have to come in - goodness knows where I'll put them, they're still in full bloom....

Fatsia Japonica/ Hedera

The fatsia should re-grow once it's settled. You don't want to encourage growth now - wait until spring and give it a good feed of a nitrogen-rich fertilizer (e.g., chicken manure pellets).

Hi all having depression

Once you've moved and settled I'm sure that you'll feel much happier again, Linda. Who knows, you might get some nice neighbours that share your love of the wildlife and the garden.

Tidying up herbaceous plants for winter

I clear anything that could rot or go slimey, but leave a few stalks sticking up from each plant so I know where they are.

Contradictions

It's partly a case of whatever works for you. Crocks usually help with drainage; I personally don't soak sweet peas any more as it doesn't seem to improve germination for me; and hormone rooting powder may help "difficult" plants, but most do fine without it.

storing bulbs

Exactly as Geoff says - bulbs are not seeds, they cannot be stored for next year. If you don't plant them out this year they will die.