Charlie Wilkins answers your gardening questions — Marguerites, moss and ornamental grass
Life & Style

Charlie Wilkins answers your gardening questions — Marguerites, moss and ornamental grass

I bought Marguerites on your recommendation this year and they were wonderful in pots.

However, now that we are moving into winter I’m at a loss as to how they should be treated.

I have no glasshouse, porch, or conservatory.

Argyranthemums (their new name) are tender and will die outside in frosty weather.

However, if you pull the pots in close to the house walls for protection (and leave the compost to go very dry) they may come through.

On very cold nights cover with some net curtains or similar.

 

Moss has invaded my lawn yet again. This is the second time this year so can I use sulphate of iron again? It worked grand earlier.

Yes, moss is widespread again this autumn. The causes are legion but high rainfall and poorly draining soil are two big factors.

Use the iron again diluting one cupful to every 2 gallons of water. Apply via a sprayer or watering can.

 

My ornamental grass Pennisetum orientalis has grown well since May.

The flower heads are tiny and as yet they’re away down among the leaves. Is this correct?

Pennisetum grasses are very late flowerers and normally flower during November. Give it time.