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Deadhead flowers All plants will benefit from having the dying flowers removed as soon as they begin to fade. It stops them putting energy into forming seed and encourages annuals to produce more flowers throughout the summer. Trim hedges to keep

-rotted manure)autumn or springan hourPrepare the soil by thoroughly digging it over, removing weeds and mixing in organic matter such as well-rotted manure. A week before planting, scatter general fertiliser granules over the area and fork in, then rake

trays, compost or propagators. Just clear the soil, forking it over to remove debris, weeds or larger stones and get sowing. I use sand from the kids' sandpit to mark out separate areas for each type of seed, and sow in rough rows to make subsequent

to self seed in it freely. Other ‘weeds’, such as self-heal and mind-your-own-business are very welcome – the only thing I remove is London plane seedlings. My lawn isn’t as well manicured as some gardeners would like and I certainly don’t go

that are big and stringy, remove these too to keep the crop coming. There will be plenty of time for saving seed later.Keep containers weed free, as weeds can compete with crops for water and nutrients and block light to developing fruit. Remove dead or dying

to cover the seed lightly with soil. Remove any weed remnants or large stones as you go to ensure the plants have a good start.Water the seeds in well using a watering can with the rose attached. This means you drench the soil but minimise disturbance

germinates and establish, removing any weeds that appear.AdamMark each end of seed drills so that you don't accidentally dig them up.Soak large seeds in water overnight to kickstart the germination process.Mix fine seeds with a dry silver sand and dribble

of lawn with no weeds or moss to spoil the effect. The best time to do this is during a warm spring or autumn when plenty of rain will help the new grass establish roots in time for summer sun or winter frosts.TurfWheelbarrowSpadeTopsoilRakeSharp knife

gardeners by answering their questions. They also help me mark out my ‘gardening problems calendar’ by highlighting which pests, diseases and weeds are causing most grief throughout the year.Topping the misery charts this time were scarlet lily beetles. Lily

from the garden. Large bucket, dustbin or decorative rhubarb forcerStraw (optional)November - February10 minutes harvest January - AprilClear around the base of a rhubarb crown, removing old leaves and weeds. Use a large pot, dustbin or decorative