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.

The peonies that I planted several years ago have never flowered. What can I do to encourage them to bloom? – Hilary Dalton, by email.

The most common causes of non-flowering in peonies is planting them too deeply and positioning them in shade. You can solve both by setting them with the crowns just under the soil in a sunny spot.

What’s been eating the pea shoots that were growing in my greenhouse? – Chris Walker, Largs.

Mice are voracious eaters of peas. Try covering the trays with fine wire mesh to prevent them from gaining access.

How do I divide an evergreen agapanthus, the roots of which have broken through their existing pot. – Fiona Menzies, by email.

Remove the plant from the container and divide it into sections using a very sharp knife then replant in gritty soil. Use pots that are just big enough as agapanthus performs better when its roots are constricted.

Is it worth deadheading daffodils? – Ian Peterson, Banff.

Deadheading prevents the formation of seed and directs energy to the roots, so it’s a good idea to do this with daffodils grown in borders. If you are naturalising the bulbs in grass then the seed will help them spread, so leave these untouched.

Are there any perennials that will thrive in a north-facing border? – Jo Taylor, by email. Astrantias and foxgloves will both suit this position and aquilegias would relish it. Think too about adding interesting foliage, with a range of different hostas. email your questions: ps@sundaypost.com