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 I have grown vegetables for many years, but over the last three years all the leeks and turnips I’ve grown from seed have bolted. – James Greig, Rutherglen.

A Climactic conditions are the most likely cause. A dip in temperature when the plants are young, followed by warmer weather, causes them to start producing flowers. Provide protection with fleece to smooth out the dips and spikes in temperature.

Wrap insulating foam around outside

taps to prevent them from freezing.

Q Can I move a large camellia that’s growing in the wrong place? – Harry Lawson, Troon.

A Camellias have a relatively limited root structure so are quite easy to relocate. Replant in acid soil and water well until re-established.

Acers need little pruning, but any

tidying up should be done now to avoid the cuts bleeding.

Q We need to remove some plants to allow diggers access to our back garden while an extension is being built. What’s the best way to look after them until they can go back? – Emily Atkins, Linlithgow.

A Create a nursery bed and line them up there, or pot them all up. However if they are only going to be out of the soil for a short time, covering with damp sacking should keep them ticking over until replanting.

Plant garlic cloves in modules in an

unheated greenhouse.

Q Why is my poinsettia losing its leaves? I’ve only had it a week. – Marjorie Wallace, Auchterarder.

A Dropped leaves are a sign of both over and under-watering. Your plant may recover if you water regularly, without allowing it to become waterlogged, and keep it in a room where it won’t get too hot.

Check through stored fruit and remove

any that are showing signs of rot.

Q I’m getting a living Christmas tree this year and want to know how best to care for it. – David Christie, Fochabers.

A The key is to keep your tree cool and wellwatered. Don’t position it near a fire or radiator and, after Christmas, acclimatise it gradually before moving outdoors. Plant when the ground isn’t frozen.

Winter prune apples and pears taking

out some of the old wood in places where branches have become crowded.