Getting the hang of water retention

How can I keep my hanging baskets moist? In previous years they have dried out very quickly. – John Curtis, Glasgow DAVID: You can buy special hydration crystals to mix into the compost. They soak up water and stop it evaporating or seeping away.

Gardman Watergel water storing crystals are about £9.99 for a 1kg tub from gardensite.co.uk – follow the manufacturer’s instructions to reduce watering.