When should I plant Chinese artichokes?
R Fletcher, by email
The Chinese artichoke is grown for its small, spiral-shaped tubers, which have a delicious nutty taste. Order them now to plant from mid-February in a sheltered, sunny spot and a reasonably fertile, well-drained soil, burying them 2in-3in deep and 12in apart. During the main growing season, keep the ground moist and weed- free, then lift the tubers in the late autumn and early winter as the leaves die back. The tubers are available by mail order from Dobies (0844 701 7625, dobies.co.uk).
Can you recommend a damson tree for my small garden?
P Douglas, Nuneaton
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Damson 'Shropshire' is perfect for a smaller plot, as it has a compact, upright habit and will provide a prolific crop of blue-black fruits in early to mid-autumn. This damson also has the advantage of being self-fertile, so only one tree is needed for a reliable supply of fruit. It is available by mail order from Deacon's Nursery (01983 840750, deaconsnurseryfruits.co.uk).
Email garden.expert@sunday-times.co.uk with your questions