Q&A with Glenys Woollard

How do I grow roses from cuttings?

Select shoots that have flowered, and take cuttings 15cm to 22cm long with a heel of older wood. Remove dead flowers and all but the top two leaves, dip in rooting hormone, then plant in sandy soil. Climbers, ramblers and some strong-growing bush roses can also be propagated by layering: Choose a suitable stem, making a 2cm slit on the lower side where it will be pegged down into sand. Heap more sand on top and wait until roots have formed before detaching.

How deep should I plant shallots?

Just far enough so bulbs stay upright; the top half should be above ground. Separate multiple bulbs and choose a sunny well-drained spot. Cultivate the soil first and tread it firm before pushing in the bulbs, allowing 10cm to 15cm between them. The shortest day is traditional planting time, with bulbs harvested on the longest day, if not before. Water once planted, then any time the soil dries out. The green tops of growing plants can be sparingly snipped and used like chives.

If you have a gardening question, email Glenys at glenyswoollard@clear.net.nz