Quick Qu estions
How often should I divide nerines?
Helen Whiting, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire Nerines are best left undisturbed until flowering starts to decline. Lift congested clumps in early summer before leaf growth. Plant
individual bulbs 10cm (4in) apart with the neck of the bulb just exposed. In cold areas plant 5cm (2in) deep. Choose a well-drained soil in a sunny, sheltered position in open borders, raised beds or at the foot of a wall.
Why have my achilleas not flowered?
Karen Brady, by email Achilleas should flower in their second year. They thrive in light, sandy soil in sunny borders but not heavy clay. The wild species are tough weeds thriving in poor lawns but, as with so many selections bred for garden use, varieties benefit from some extra care. Put a bit of general purpose fertiliser around them and ensure they’re not crowded out by taller plants creating too much shade. They should be in flower by mid-summer.
How do I prune my mystery tree?
Joseph Kilsaran, Slough, Berkshire Your tree is, in fact, a shrubby euphorbia, possibly
E. mellifera or E. stygiana. Neither of these is really suitable to prune. If you have to reduce it, then do so in summer, immediately after flowering. Prune back flowered shoots to a strong shoot or bud. Wear gloves, and even goggles, as the latex-like sap can cause irritation.