To harvest, or not to harvest? It can be tricky to know when garlic is ready to be dug up, but JUSTIN RUSSELL has a simple method that doesn't involve counting leaves, and ignores the theory of set planting and harvesting dates.

Tomatoes are almost everyone's summer favourite, but they can be temperamental plants to grow. JUSTIN RUSSELL wonders whether gardeners over-cultivate tomatoes, and plans an experiment in leaving the plants to their own devices.

In a previous post, Simon Webster reported on a proposal to build Australia's first electricty producing biochar plant. In this follow up post JUSTIN RUSSELL gives a run down on how you can use biochar in the garden.

Gardeners in warm areas are busy planting out their organic spring crops. With a little protection, you can give seedlings a head start in cold areas too. PHIL DUDMAN, shares a few ideas for a simple homemade coldframe.