It’s time to...

...trim dwarf conifers to keep them from becoming too large.

Can you identify this weed that is growing in parts of my garden? – Les Mollison, by email

Unfortunately this is ground elder. Dig out as much root as you can and dispose of in your brown recycling bin. Keep doing this to weaken the growth and don’t move anything from here to other parts of the garden as you could spread the problem.

Why are my tomatoes tasteless? The seedlings were given to me by a gardening friend who swears by their flavour. – Dave Black, Anstruther

I think this is a case of too much water. Keeping the plants just a little on the dry side intensifies the flavour of the fruits.

Can I split hostas in the autumn? I have several very large plants that need to be divided. – Lynsey Grove, by email

You can, but some experienced hosta growers prefer to split them in spring, just as they are coming into growth.

email your questions: ps@sundaypost.com