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compost to improve my soil, sprinkling it around newly planted bulbs and divided perennials. And with the cost of gardening forever on the increase I'll save a small fortune on bags of soil improvers and compost from the garden centre.

particles, which bind together easily, making the soil prone to waterlogging. Light soil - such as sandy soil - is made up of large particles, so is free draining and prone to leaching nutrients. You can improve soil by incorporating organic matter

large clods. If necessary, incorporate some well-rotted manure or garden compost to improve soil texture and fertility.Transplant the leeks into the ground when they're about 15-20cm tall. Use a broom handle to make holes 15-20cm deep and about 15cm

to prevent it drying out.The exotic striped spathe will form on the side of the leaf stalk and lasts about one week before beginning to fade.AdamAdd loam or John Innes to your compost to improve nutrient levels, and start feeding every week once your plants

.More lawn care adviceImproving your lawn, with advice from Monty DonChris Beardshaw on maintaining a healthy lawnMowing your lawnSowing a lawn from seedBrowse a selection of grass varietiesView plants by soil type

the ground is warm and moist, will germinate in a couple of weeks and will have a headstart over seeds sown in the colder spring.Grass seedCanesPlastic cupRakeApril - May, September1 weekendJune - AugustSow grass seed at the rate of one-and-a half ounces per

soothes sore throats.Take one teaspoonful four to five times a day until symptoms improve. If symptoms persist after a week, consult your doctor.Large, fresh onionJar of clear honeyBowlFunnelSterilised bottleCling filmall year round20 minutesPeel, top

around the roots.Trim off a good section of the roots with a knife.Cut the root into short lengths (around 2.5cm) and push these vertically into a seed tray, of compost, thick end up.Cover the seed tray with a thin layer of grit to improve drainage

These tiny, sap-sucking pests may be only 0.5mm long but they can wreak havoc in a greenhouse or on houseplants indoors. For most of the year they are a pale green colour with two dark spots on their back; it's only in autumn and winter

of gooseberry plants, eventually affecting the fruit. It's often accompanied by dieback of new growth.Space out plants and cut out congested branches to improve air circulation. Cut off any infected branches straight away. Plant resistant cultivars