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 My husband bought a Gala apple tree five years ago, but it hasn’t produced much fruit, although it has grown some long shoots. Can you help?

– Mrs A. Greatorex, Ulverston.

A Removing those long shoots this month should help to promote better fruiting next year. Cut back shoots into hard wood, below the point where new leaves have started to grow, making the cut just above a leaf or bud.

Water plants early in the morning and

late in the evening to avoid evaporation.

Q I have a large flowered purple clematis that is looking very sickly. Is this the dreaded clematis wilt? – Anne Sharp, Busby.

A It could be, but it’s more likely that your clematis is growing in shallow soil that is drying out. Clematis like to have their heads in the sun but their roots in cool shade, so water it well and cover the base with large stones to create cool, shady conditions.

Shorten the new growth on gooseberries

above the level of this year’s crop.

Q The fuchsias in my hanging baskets are very colourful. If I plant them in the garden in autumn will they survive the winter?

– J. Donnachie, Cumbernauld.

A No. Bedding fuchsias are killed by cold weather but you could pot them up, keep them just moist but not damp and store them in a dark, frost-free shed until spring.

If plum trees have produced an

extra-large crop, put props beneath the branches to prevent them splitting away.

Q Is there any way to stop blossom end rot from developing on tomatoes? – M. Currie, by email.

A Regular watering is the key to prevention. Keeping plants moist, but not waterlogged, and never allowing them to dry out, will provide a source of fluids and nutrients.

Continue to water shrubs, trees and

perennials planted earlier this year to prevent young roots from drying out.

Q Can I plant angel’s fishing rods in my bog garden? – Lucy Weir, Cumbernauld.

A Despite their name angel’s fishing rods, or Dieramas, actually like well-drained soil and a sunny spot and won’t survive the winter if planted in damp soil. One way to get the effect you want is to grow them in a large container, filled with gritty compost.

When topping up a pond with tap water,

leave the water to stand in a large bucket for at least 24 hours to allow the chlorine to evaporate.