GARDEN GURU

QIs there any truth in the old wives’ tale that says nothing will grow in molehill earth? Janet Ash

AI’m not aware of the old wives’ tale but can happily report that molehill soil is perfect for adding to home-made potting mixes – simply combine with garden compost and sharp sand. The soil itself is lovely and crumbly, and mainly comes from below the top few inches of the surface, meaning it shouldn’t contain weed seeds. Let the birds go to work on molehills before gathering the soil, devouring any insect larvae.

QThis year I had a strange plant that grew to about 5ft tall. After a bit of detective work I came to the conclusion it was figwort. Is it beneficial to wildlife or should I get rid of it? Deb Summers

AFigwort, or Scropularia nodosa, is a native perennial that produces a tall stem with inconspicuous green and brown flowers in summer and early autumn. As far as I’m concerned it’s not particularly attractive, although the flowers are visited by bees and other insects. As for removing it, that’s a decision for you. If you like it, hang on to it. If not, give it the chop.

QWhat’s the difference between primroses and polyanthus? Charlie Baker

AThese closely related plants are easy to recognise. Primroses produce a number of flower stems that carry one bloom each. Polyanthus have a taller, single stem topped with a number of flowers.