The Mail on Sunday

GARDEN GURU

- Got a problem in your plot? Email Martyn Cox at info@martyncox.biz

Q Should I cut back my daffodils once they have finished flowering?

Alice Richmond

A No. Pinch off flower heads when they start to fade, but allow leaves to die back naturally as they help to recharge bulbs for flowering again next spring.

Q A bright green weed that forms star-shaped rosettes has been invading my lawn.

Can you tell me what it is?

Colin Demmery

A The pesky weed is pearlwort (Sagina procumbens), which spreads undergroun­d by self-seeding. Hand-weeding is the best way to control pearlwort, since the leaves are resistant to herbicides. As it thrives in damp soil, you should avoid using a garden sprinkler in summer and make sure that the ground underneath is not compacted.

Q I have six water butts that are covered in duckweed. Is it OK to use the water on plants, or do you think I should get rid of it? Hilary Russell

A Duckweed acts a bit like a water purifier and removes harmful nitrates, so the water should be safe for use on plants. To stop duckweed growing, just place lids or covers on the butts.

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