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Monty Don and Carol Klein demonstrate how to plant alpine plants through a layer of membrane and gravel, with advice on increasing soil drainage.spring or autumnMore on growing alpinesWatch our video guide to making an alpine pathVideo advice on planting alpines in a potCreating ...

Learn which are the most suitable plants for propagating by root cuttings, in Chris Beardshaw's video guide, with tips on preparing cuttings and how to avoid them rotting off.October - NovemberMore advice on propagating plantsHow to take root cuttingsCarol Klein's video guide to ...

and are inexpensive.3.9m scaffolding planks, 3.7cm thick, x 2SoilOrganic matterPliersHand sawJigsawTape measureRulerautumn - winterRemove the metal banding from the ends of the planks with pliers.Using a hand saw, cut each board in two to give one 2.3m and one 1.6m

Bare patches can appear in your lawn after a thorough raking, where the grass is undernourished or where it's been worn out. These gaps should be reseeded or returfed to prevent moss and weeds colonising the soil and to allow your lawn to look its best all year round.Grass seed o...

Paving and gravel paths can quickly become colonised by garden weeds. Follow our tips on keeping your paths pristine and weed free, below. While some plants, such as thyme and alpines, look delightful growing in the gaps between patio slabs or path

Overgrown lawn edges can look unsightly and make an otherwise healthy, well-cared for garden look untidy. For a professional finish, re-cut the edges of your lawn each spring and trim overhanging grass after mowing.Half-moon edging toolPlank of wood

of the season. As a guide, a general-purpose lawn is best kept at 2.5cm - 4cm long in the summer.In early to mid-spring, mow your lawn once a week. Increase this to twice a week in late spring and early summer when growth is most vigorous.Compost grass cuttings

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

Soil typesYour soil type - sandy, loam or clay - determines which plant species you can grow. Knowing your soil type enables to you to choose the plants best suited to your garden. Soil type is identified the presence of clay, sand and silt

Watering can or hosepipeMarch - April, September - October1 weekendJune - AugustPrepare the area, levelling the ground and removing big stones. If the surface is uneven, wheelbarrow in some topsoil, pour it on top and even it out with a rake.Firm the soil