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Q. When is the best time to lift the canopy on an ornamental cherry tree?

A. Neil – Think about whether it is absolutely necessary because they don’t like being pruned. I would do it later in the year when the flowers have gone, perhaps even as late as July. The roots will be stronger at that point. Cut at an angle to help it to heal more easily.

Q. Should I deadhead my daffodils by taking off the flower or removing the whole stem?

A. Just take the head and leave the stem. The stem is green and will be feeding the bulb. Leave them to die back completely. You deadhead to prevent it from wasting energy on producing seed.

Q. Our twelve-year-old Victoria plum has too many fruit. How hard should I thin it?

A. Bob – It can be very tedious because there are so many fruit. I take the bottom half of the trusses off with secateurs. Doing it now won’t hurt them and you will have more flower buds and a better crop next year.

Anne – The only problem with that plan is that you will still be left with bunches. The fruit can rub together, go mouldy and attract the wasps. I would do it in two stages and thin the bunches as well.

Q. Can you divide or pot on calla lilies?

A. Anne – You can use both techniques. If dividing, take them out of the pot and split into two pieces using your hands. I think it is a little late in the year though because you may disturb the flowering. Sort them out in spring.

Neil – They are quite hungry plants. I mix soil-based compost with manure when potting them on.

Q. Why are my lemon and orange trees not thriving?

A. Bob - Make sure you use rain water. Don’t use a compost with lime. Mix in some leaf mould and grit for drainage. The roots suffer if they become waterlogged. Take them inside over the winter.

Anne – Make sure they have a sunny, cool position when they are taken indoors. Use a winter citrus feed once a month. Dilute it in a bucket and stand the plant inside.

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