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-seeded readily. Once they've flowered, the seed heads ripen and split, scattering their contents onto the soil below. I've rested pots of compost around them to catch the seed in the past, or it can just be collected by hand.Freshly sown foxglove seeds germinate

The sun is shining, I can't believe it, and I'm pretty sure my plants can't believe it either! The warmer soil and increased light intensity have made a massive difference to my garden. Only now, towards the end of September has my vegetable plot

the best time to buy and plant trees for autumn colour. Not only are the leaves starting to change colour, giving you some indication of what the tree will look like in your garden, but the planting conditions are perfect, too. The soil is still warm from

.I planted them into a well-firmed bed, which is the key to growing good sprouts. A loose soil leads to 'blown' open sprouts rather than nice, tight little buttons.I've also earthed up the stems as they've grown, which keeps them firmly rooted in the ground

pursuit of horticultural titbits to amuse readers of this blog. A lot of the island is covered with what is known as Machair - sandy soil, scrubby grass and wild flowers - which, although past its first flush of youth by this time of year, is very lovely

. But of course I didn't. I bunged it in a big pot with a bit of soil and old compost because I didn't know where to plant it, neglected it horribly and only chucked a bucketful of water at it when it looked like it was about to pop its clogs.I really do

on light levels. It's the constant temperature plus good light that encourages germination. The seedlings are growing in modular trays; this is a brilliant method that allows for easy transplanting into the garden as soon as the soil warms up. As the roots

requiring the excavation of about a cubic metre of soil - nearly a skipful in total. Enough to make a complete mess of the average garden.And finally the idea of finding this tucking into your brassicas is enough to make most gardeners greet the next passing

of soil - if they don't kit them out in proper kids rigger-style gloves. That's what I'd call a sound investment!

the country and it will really make a difference. And my reward, apart from doing my bit, is lovely compost to dig in and improve my soil.