Check this
Containers of evergreens, particularly those sheltering in the lee of a building, can get unexpectedly dry in winter. Stick a finger below the compost surface to check for moisture, and give them a drink if they need it – but avoid doing so when a freezing night is predicted, and don’t let water sit in a saucer below.
Read this
If you’ve never ventured beyond ‘King Edward’ or ‘Desiree’, now is the time to research some new spud varieties for the growing season. Visit thepeoplespotatoes.com for inspiration from potato guru Alan Wilson – his book The People’s Potatoes lists more than 400 varieties of all shapes, sizes and colours.
Plant this
Add a splash of yellow to the cutting border with the daisy-like blooms of Coreopsis ‘Full Moon’ (pictured). This hardy perennial will flower from July to September and is perfect for the wildlife garden, too, with a height and spread of 60cm x 60cm. Buy one one-litre potted plant for £7.99 or two for £12.99 (plus £4.95 p&p per order). To order, call 0330 333 6790, quoting ref GU486. Or go to shop.theguardian.com/GU486. Dispatched within four to six weeks.
