BUSINESS

Name: Japanese maple trees. Age: First cultivated in Britain in 1820. Appearance: Wait, where’s mine gone? Well, go on then, describe it. I’m trying. It was here a moment ago. Oh God, has someone nicked it? I hardly think someone would have stolen your tree. Don’t sound so surprised. This is the fifth one of … Read more

I’ve only ever gardened in cities, and I’ve lived in them for more than half my life, but my rural roots show when it comes to foxgloves. They are steeped in the lore of Beatrix Potter illustrations and the first warm walks of the year down country lanes. Because they typically bloom in May, it’s … Read more

Glaswegian retirees Jim McConnachie and Frances McChlery had always dreamed of building their own home with a waterside view, and had even toyed with buying a plot on Scotland’s west coast. However, when McChlery’s sister was diagnosed with young-onset dementia, they had to rethink their plans. “The prospect and implications of supporting my sister-in-law became a … Read more

Our wall planner is pinned on to a large cork board in the kitchen. Structured month by month in rows, it is parma violet, coral pink and butter yellow, and huge – a good metre long, almost the size of the table beneath it. I bought mine online after a friend, who keeps hers Blu-Tacked … Read more

What’s the problem?I’ve noticed tiny webs and bugs on my orchid. Are these spiders, and will they harm my plant? DiagnosisThose tiny webs and minuscule bugs you’ve spotted on your plants sound like spider mites. These aren’t spiders but microscopic arachnids that thrive in dry, warm conditions, so you’ll notice they appear during summer heatwaves … Read more

The right kit can make or break a camping trip or festival. But what’s the secret to testing it? If Filter writers Sian Lewis and Linda Geddes are anything to go by, a love of the outdoors, willing helpers (including a friend with a field) – and some extremely creative testing scenarios. The Guardian’s journalism … Read more