Potting Shed

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.

I’ve noticed suckers appearing from a mahonia in my garden. Can I use these to make more plants? – Anne Docherty, Stirling

You can, but wait until spring before separating them from the plant and potting them up.

I’m stripping turf from an area of my garden where we are going to build an extension. Is the turf worth saving? – D Harrison, Kemnay

If you stack it upside down it will eventually turn into crumbly top soil.

Are pear trees difficult to grow? – Liam Macklin, by email

Pears dislike cold winds, early frosts and drought but if you have a sheltered spot and are willing to cover the tree with fleece on cold spring nights then have a go with a reliable variety such as ‘Concorde’ or ‘Conference’.

How do I get rid of a fairy ring of mushrooms that appears on my lawn every autumn? – George Leitch, Bishopbriggs

Replacing the soil and returfing is the only solution, but fairy rings can be attractive so why not enjoy it?

Why has my cherry tree, planted two years ago, put on no growth? – Mark Tierney, Burnside

I suspect the tree was root-bound when you planted it. Dig it up, improve the soil, spread mycorrhizal fungi on the roots and then replant. Stake it and keep it well watered.