Why used coffee grounds may be doing your plants more harm than good
14 June 2023
We are often told to add used coffee grounds to garden soil to perk up plants. But the science doesn’t support this, says James Wong
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Premium
Foraging for wild garlic: how, when and what to watch out for
17 May 2023
The pungent flavour of wild garlic probably evolved as a defence against herbivory, but it doesn’t deter garlic-loving humans, says Sam Wong
Why watering your plants at midday won't damage their leaves
10 May 2023
It is a long-held idea that midday watering will scorch plants' foliage and damage their health – but this isn’t supported by the evidence, says James Wong
Learn the secrets of poinsettias to help them thrive
7 December 2022
Shop-bought poinsettias produce a stunning display of crimson, and these tropical plants can be coaxed into an encore performance if you have the patience, says Clare Wilson
How miracle berries turn sour foods sweet
31 August 2022
The fruit of Synsepalum dulcificum, a plant native to West Africa, doesn't taste sugary on its own, but any sour food you eat afterwards will turn miraculously sweet
How to dry the seeds from your garden to plant next spring
17 August 2022
Expand your plant collection for free by saving seeds this year, storing them over the winter and sowing them next spring, says Clare Wilson
How to grow chilli plants in cooler climates
20 July 2022
Chilli plants can thrive in summer and survive the winter even in temperate climes, says the heat-loving Clare Wilson, who offers some top tips
Here's how to spot invasive plants before they take over
11 August 2021
Could the next Japanese knotweed be growing in your garden? Help find potential invasive species by grassing up the plant bullies in your flower beds, says Clare Wilson
How to use smart soil science to colour your hydrangea bush
28 October 2020
Always wanted a garden full of blue, pink or red hydrangeas? All you have to do is tap into cunning garden science that exploits an unusual pigment in their flowers, says Clare Wilson
How to use plants to turn your home into a green building
23 September 2020
Planting climbers like ivy can cover ugly walls, insulate your home and support local wildlife – and keeping it under control is easier than you would think, writes Clare Wilson
