Can I grow peach ‘Rochester’ outdoors?

P Bainbridge, Rochester

This peach has succulent, yellow-fleshed fruit that is harvested in early to mid-August. Fortunately, it is one of the most reliable peach varieties and can be grown outdoors in this country. For the best results, it should be trained as a fan against a sunny, sheltered, south- or west-facing wall – ensure the ground is fertile, moisture-retentive and well drained. The plant will eventually reach a height of 8ft, with a 12ft spread. Peaches flower in the early spring and, during cold weather, these may need protecting from frosts – cover the branches at night with horticultural fleece. If pollinating insects, such as bees, are scarce, the flowers will benefit from hand-pollination – gently stroke each with a soft paintbrush. Peach ‘Rochester’ can be planted in the late autumn and is available from Deacon’s Nursery (01983 840750, www.deaconsnurseryfruits.co.uk).

Where can I buy slate for a terrace?

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R Dawes, by e-mail

Natural slate is ideal for landscaping the garden, as it is very strong and hard-wearing. It can be used for terraces, steps and walling. Slate chippings are also suitable for walkways or spreading over the ground as attractive border mulches.

To make the most of this material, you can purchase slate tables and water features, too. Slate paving, walling stone, chippings and garden features are available by mail order from Honister Slate Mine (01768 777230, www.honister.com).

When should I plant rhubarb in my garden?

J Nichols, Chesterfield

A good time to plant rhubarb is in the late autumn or early spring. Choose a reliable variety, such as ‘Timperley Early’, ‘Victoria’ or ‘Stockbridge Arrow’. If you can, buy a container-grown specimen from the garden centre and bury the rootball to the same depth as in the original container; the plant will spread to about 3ft in width. A sunny (or semi-shaded) spot and fertile, welldrained soil are essential. During the growing season, remove weeds and keep the ground moist in dry weather. The crown of the plant should be surrounded with a spring mulch of well-rotted compost. Remove any flower stems to divert the rhubarb’s energy into leaf and stem production. To build up the plant, it is best not to start harvesting the stems until the second season after planting.

Neil Wormald is a qualified horticulturalist. Send your questions to Garden Expert, Home, The Sunday Times, 1 Pennington Street, London E98 1ST, or email: garden.expert@sunday-times.co.uk

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