Buckingham Palace's head gardener, Mark Lane, has provided expert gardening tips for people to try at home during lockdown.
On the royal family's Twitter, Mark answered a plethora of gardening-related questions. From the best UK-native trees for small gardens, to which low-maintenance plants to opt for, Mark gave a glimpse into what he has learnt during his 28-year tenure working at the Palace.
Strawberry 'Sweetheart' | 8.5cm Pot
One avid gardener asked Mark for his tips on growing berries indoors when outdoor space is limited. Mark suggested: 'Strawberries would work best, but they need a cold period outdoors before coming in to flower and fruit. Indoors, always look out for pests and diseases, and where possible, provide free-moving air.'
Mark also offered his advice on the best UK-native trees to plant outside. He explained that wildlife-friendly trees, such as Rowan, Elder, Blackthorn, Dogwood, Hawthorn or Holly, will help to create a haven for insects, bees, butterflies and birds. Best of all, these trees are brilliant if you have a smaller garden.
Elsewhere, another follower asked Mark how to successfully take a cutting from a rose bush that's growing outside. Mark explained: 'Early summer is best. Cut a tip of new growth, about 15cm long, just below a node (where leaves grow). Remove the bottom leaves. Apply rooting powder and insert into a damp, sandy compost. Cover with a plastic bag or spray with water occasionally, and then place on a heated bench.'
Last month, the Royal Family shared a rare, behind-the-scenes glimpse of the breathtaking gardens at Buckingham Palace. Posting on their Twitter page, the short 14-second video clip showed the colour-filled gardens and sprawling trees in all their fullness.
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19 best gardening gifts under £35
These easy-to-use seedboms biodegrade into the environment leaving only plants behind. The ultimate stocking filler, each pack contains a mixture of native wildflower seeds.
Gloves are a must-have for gardeners. With a sweet bird print and ultra-soft fell palms, this Burgon & Ball style is perfect for all. But they're selling out quick, so be fast if you want them for a loved one.
Make a friend or family member smile with this lovely personalised state plant marker. Charming and rustic, it's sure to spruce up any vegetable patch.
Choose two lines of personalised text when you buy a loved one this lovely tin for all of their essential gardening tools – this is a gift that's guaranteed to be used regularly.
Keep tools and accessories neatly stored away with this stylish gardening bag. Designed by Sophie Conran, it's water resistant, wipe clean and has practical restraining straps to keep your items safe.
Gardening is often tough on the hands, so it's important for regular gardeners to look after their skin. Trust us, this hand cream will go down a treat...
This stylish black metal watering can from H&M Home is a must-have for avid gardeners – or even just for those who love their houseplants.
With an extra long leg, ankle support and a tog rating of 2.3 to keep your feet warm and toasty while gardening, these are the perfect accompaniment to welly boots, for gardening fans who still spend plenty of time outdoors in the winter.
If your loved one can always be found in the garden, this personalised slate hanging sign can be hung in said garden, or in the shed or greenhouse.
Gardening lovers are sure to appreciate a practical gardening tool, so why not make them a little more special for them to use by personalising them? In this set, which can accommodate your own inscription, they'll get a weeder, trowel and a cultivator.
For newbie gardeners or those who need a refresh of their knowledge, make sure they have this book to hand – which shares everything from how deep to plant certain bulbs, to when to prune leaves.
This practical canvas kneeler is a must-have for every gardening expert, especially those who struggle with knee pain. Its long handle makes it incredibly practical to hang in a shed or garage after use.
Get personal with your gift ideas and give something printed with your own message. These ceramic planters make excellent presents.
Every gardener needs a practical hand fork. Tidy up flower beds and borders with this three-pronged hand tool from Garden Trading.
Ensure that seeds are stored safely with this storage box. Available in three colours – black, yellow and light grey – each box contains twelve blank card dividers, ideal for keeping track of a year's worth of seeds.
Bring a smile to your friend's face with this peace lily in a gorgeous pot. With dark green foliage and long-lasting white flowers, it's a beautiful way to brighten any room.
Learning new skills is always exciting. This experience gift will give guests the chance to professionally learn how to grow their own chillis at home, and it's currently got a great discount.
This enamel tin is an incredibly stylish way to store bird feed. We're certain it will make a well-received gift.
Okay, so technically this is a little bit over £35 (only a little) but this gift box will give your gardening friends a step in the right direction to help care for any small garden birds.
