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vegetables, you will get a heavier crop if you grow leeks in a well-lit position, with soil that has been improved by the addition of plenty of organic matter. Leek seedsMulti-purpose compostPots or seed traysGarden forkStringBroom or large dibberWatering can

, they will not thrive in sodden soils - decent drainage is essential. As with any other plant, get them off to a good start by incorporating plenty of organic material, such as home-made compost. Oriental poppies will appreciate a small amount of fertiliser, but don

The crab apple, Malus'Golden Hornet', is loaded every year with small, amber-yellow fruit. By Christmas many have fallen to the ground, though the branches are still decked with copious amounts of fruit. They are decorative and versatile, and ideal

Blue bulbsBlue is one of my favourite colours in the garden. Every year, I eagerly scour catalogues and flower-show exhibits for new varieties of blue-flowering bulbs. Plan ahead so you can enjoy a sea of blue in February, before the daffodils

Nettles have a bad reputation among gardeners. Although they sting and are invasive if left unchecked, there are numerous ways they can be put to positive use in both your garden and kitchen. Learn more, below.Nettles are a magnet for beneficial

with dry silver sand when making initial sowings, so you can see exactly how far apart you're sowing the seed.If you don't mind small carrots, make just one thinning to leave seedlings 4cm apart.Advice on growing carrotsMonty Don's video project on growing

peel and glossy paper or card.Only add small quantities of waste at a time. Worms dislike acidic conditions, so avoid adding citrus peel and add plenty of cardboard pieces and crushed egg shells to the mix. Water sparingly if the worm bin looks dry

Winter wildlifeMost garden wildlife hibernates over winter, as food is in short supply and freezing temperatures make life difficult. Learn how to help wild creatures through the cold winter months, below.In winter, wild animals and insects hunker