The Garden Guru

Got a problem in your plot? Let our Garden Guru Martyn Cox help you out

Q I’m growing a tender fuchsia in a pot. I know it needs protecting over winter, but I haven’t got a greenhouse. Any tips? Mrs A. Richards

A Basket and patio fuchsias need to be stored in a frost-free place. A cool place indoors will do, such as a spare room – as they are dormant they don’t need light, so there’s no need to place on a windowsill. Cut the stems back to about 6in and keep the compost damp, but not wet.

Q I have been given two ginger lily rhizomes. I’d like to raise them in pots but would welcome your advice on the best way to grow them. Sylvia Holmes

A Ginger lilies are perfect for pots. The pots need to be big enough to accommodate the rhizome, which should be planted horizontally with buds just beneath the surface. Use John Innes No2 compost. Stand in a frost-free place in winter or protect by wrapping pots with bubble wrap, putting some bark chippings on top.

If you have a question for Martyn, email info@martyncox.biz