Gardening: Your problems solved | Brian Kidd (Oct 11)

Q: I have a small garden and had all my black guttering replaced. Can the old guttering be used to grow plants? SL, Cosham

A: Yes, drill small holes about a foot apart and cover these with a piece of broken flower pot. These pieces are called crocks and prevent the compost being too wet. Use JI number three compost and plant strawberries 12 inches apart. In another strip sow lettuce, radish, spring onions or beetroot in small batches next April. Keep an eye on watering as guttering can dry out rapidly.

Q: I have been forking out my gladioli plants. I waited until the leaves went brown but want to know which parts to keep and which bits to throw away? DL, Denvilles.

A: The dead leaves should be put into the compost bin. Pull the corms off and keep these in a dry frost free shed and put a label in the box.

Q: I was given a hot water plant and would like to keep it. What do I have to do please? AM, Fratton.

A: Gradually reduce the water so the compost will dry out. Leave the achimenes in the pot and make sure there is a label. In April, take the plant out of the pot and gently rub the compost and you will find small tubers. Plant five in each pot, using a potting compost, not garden soil, water and keep in a sunny window.