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We've been enjoying potatoes since the late 16th century when Spanish conquistadors brought them back from Peru.There are three main types, named according to when you plant and harvest them: first earlies, second earlies and maincrop. Depending

have to consider switching to alternative bedding plants. Clearly this also worries the plant breeders and growers who make a living out of developing and raising busy Lizzies.At present it appears that impatiens downy mildew only infects varieties

. Also, I recommend warming areas of your plot with cloches or polythene for a few days before sowing - it makes an amazing difference to germination.Most of the plants in my garden will benefit from a good feed during spring. Not just young plants

Reliable, trouble-free plants are what we're all after, and Clematis 'Arabella' certainly fits the bill. I planted mine at the base of another really reliable plant, the evergreen Teucrium fruticans, placing it on the shaded north side so its roots

intensively in show-off numbers, especially under trees or shrubs. Aim to make plantings look natural. When your bulbs arrive, keep them in a cool, dry place and plant them as promptly as possible. Check new bulbs to make sure they are firm - discard any

A huge plot isn't essential for growing vegetables - in fact, it can be a drawback. A small, intensive, easily managed plot produces far more top quality, usable crops for most busy people. The secret of success is making best use of available space

to stop them circling the rootball.Add a handful of granular fertiliser to the planting hole, making sure it's evenly distributed. Mix some well-rotted manure or compost with the soil previously removed from the hole. Spread this around the rootball

We are getting very close to the end of the bare-root planting season. This is your last chance to plant trees and hedges, which have been dug out of the ground (as opposed to their cossetted cousins that are pot grown).This also means that it is a

like it before; the closest comparison I can make is with celosia, but 'Joey' is much more delicate in both form and colour.It looks and feels soft to the touch, and would be stunning planted in a block in patio pots. I've found it listed by Plants

20,000 — so I try to visit as many of them as possible at this time of year. This is partly to see the fruits of all that labour, but also to make notes ready for the next planting season in autumn. Generally, as my family will happily tell you, I am