Welcome to my potting shed! This is the column where I’ll share all my gardening hints and tips – and I’ll try to answer any queries you may have.

Q Can you identify some short stems I’ve found while clearing an overgrown patch. Each is 15cm in height and studded with bright, red berries. – Clare Mellis, Hawick.

A These sound like the fruiting stalks of Arum italicum, a beautiful but highly-poisonous plant. If you have children, you might want to remove them, but wear gloves and wash your hands afterwards as every part of this plant, from the roots to the tips, is toxic.

Cut back stems on climbing roses to prevent being blown about in winter gales.

Q A couple of years ago we created raised beds, but now the soil level in these has sunk. Can I fill them with homemade compost? – H. Reid, Lanark.

A Yes, so long as it is well-rotted. And the best way to prevent the problem recurring is to top-up regularly with leaf-mould and other organic material. Add grit to prevent the mix becoming too heavy.

Houseplants that have spent the summer outdoors should be brought inside now and watering reduced.

Q Our driveway consists of two lines of slabs with gravel in between. What can I plant here that will brighten up this parking area? - D. Lally, Arbroath.

A Small alpines such as thyme, saxifrage and dianthus will grow quite happily and spread out into mats of colourful flowers.

Plant helenium, monarda and rudbeckia to add colour to your autumn garden.

Q I have a number of orchids, but as I travel a lot for work I worry about them overheating in the greenhouse on hot days. Am I best to leave the vents open or closed? – Peter Taggart, via email.

A Neither, instead fit vents that open and close by themselves, depending on temperature. Gases inside the vents expand, opening when hot and closing as the air cools. Bayliss Autovents make a range suitable for orchids – call 01335 342981.

Keep picking autumn rasps and simply cut the canes back to ground level when the fruiting season has finished.

Q My dahlias have been hit bit an early frost. Should I give up on them this year and dig them up? – P. Smith, via email.

A No! Just pick off dead blooms and leave unaffected buds to open.

Use solar lights along paths and around seating areas to extend enjoyment of your garden as the evenings get shorter.