A piece of wood placed upright in a plastic water barrel will prevent the barrel splitting when it freezes.

If tender buds or shoots become frozen, thaw them out slowly by spraying with cold water before the sun shines, otherwise they may get scorched.

To prevent snow damaging small conifers, when it is forecast tie the branches to the trunk with string, however, do not leave them tied for more than a day or two.

To keep plants alive during a week or more away from home, place a towel in the bottom of the bath and add 2.5cm of water. Place house plants on top of the towel. They will draw up the water whilst you are away.

When arranging your lilies, sometimes a little of the pollen can get on to your clothes. When this happens, gently lift the pollen off with some sellotape, but take care not to rub.