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 been given a tradescantia. How do I care for it? – Bethan Caulder, Maybole

Tradescantia is a trailing plant, so let it spill from a tall container. Don’t let it dry out and keep it in bright light, but out of direct sunlight. Trim the stems occasionally to promote bushier growth.

I’ve got a mixed shrub and perennial border that’s getting congested. What’s the best way of thinning it out? – Elizabeth Samson, Melrose

Dig up and divide perennials in early spring and cut back shrubs after flowering. You may want to raise the canopy of things such as holly in order to create more room for flowers at ground level.

What is hugelkultur? One of the new plotters at our allotments says it is the best way to grow food. – Andy Welsh, by email

Hugelkultur involves piling up logs, branches straw and cardboard, then a layer of upsidedown turfs, before adding soil over the top and planting directly into this. The idea is that as the wood breaks down it generates heat and nutrients.

How long do leaves take to break down? I’ve got some from last year that haven’t changed at all. – Steve Morrison, Elgin

Dry leaves can take forever to decompose. You’ve got to leave them uncovered so that they are constantly wet. Depending on the type of leaves, they should decompose in about two years.

I’ve spotted a clematis in flower in a local garden. What is it? – Gina Sangster, Ayr

This is likely to be a variety of Clematis cirrhosa, which is native to the Mediterranean and which needs a very sheltered position.

email your questions: ps@sundaypost.com