Jobs for the week

roots while healthy roots are thick and silvery.

What a survivor

Moth orchid flowers are incredibly long lasting. One single bloom can stay around for three months. Once the last flower has dropped from the plant, cut the flower spike halfway down the stem to 2-3cm above the third green, fleshy node or bump on the stem. Care for the plant as normal and you may get a second bloom the following year.

Shed loads

Have a clear-out in the shed. Wash and sterilise used trays and pots and discard any that are damaged. Smash and wash broken clay pots to be used as drainage crocks in patio pots.

Big is best

Plant amaryllis bulbs, which will flower in early spring. When growth is well under way, support the top-heavy, glorious flower stems with a cane.

Difficult sod

Break up hard, compacted clay soil by digging in aggregate or a gypsum clay breaker, and use generous amounts of organic matter and mulch. Remember to keep off the soil after a big thaw or you will squash out all the air and make matters worse.

CLEAN white marks off clay pots by soaking them

of overnight in a bucket

a warm water, adding cup of white vinegar and a dash of

bleach.