It’s time to...

Check stakes on trees and secure any wall-trained shrubs or trees that have damaged by the storm.

I ordered a viburnum online and when it arrived it was just one stick in a small pot. Can I plant it out in the garden? – Neil Haughey, Kilmarnock

Your plant doesn’t look promising now, but it will grow. However, you will have to pot it on several times before planting it out.

When’s the best time to take cuttings from a scented pelargonium? I’m growing ‘Attar of Roses’ on my kitchen windowsill. – Anon.

Wait until April and then cut the plant back by two thirds. You can then use the best of the cuttings to make more plants.

Several branches were snapped off my magnolia during the storm. Will the tree recover? – Iain Hamilton, Glenrothes

Your magnolia will be fine. Despite the delicacy of their flowers, the trees themselves are tough. But if you plan to prune the tree to even up its shape then wait until summer, otherwise the cuts may bleed.