Tricks of the trade

30/09/2007

Need expert advice on your home or garden? Email homes@sundaymirror.co.uk or write to Tricks of the Trade at Homes & Holidays, 1 Canada Square, Canary Wharf, London E14 5AP. Sorry we can’t reply personally.

Q I have been given a hellebore that I am told will flower in time for Christmas. Is this true? – Caroline Morrison, Redhill, Surrey
A ADRIENNE says: Unfortunately Helleborus niger, also known as the Christmas rose or black hellebore, is a bit of a cheat as it doesn’t always flower in time for the festivities. Usually it peaks in early January, so if you want to guarantee perfect flowers during December, it’s a good idea to cover the plants with open-ended cloches to offer them a little warmth and protection.  Covering the plants will also ensure there are plenty of beautiful blooms to cut for the Christmas table.
Q We have these amazing tall windows in our dining room which let in loads of light but do nothing for our privacy. I don’t want to cover them up with floor-to-ceiling curtains, but I’m not sure what my alternatives are. The walls are painted a light blue. What should I do? – Veronica Becham, Middlesbrough
A Zena says: What a lovely problem to have – large windows are such a bonus, but they can be expensive to dress. The blind company Eclectics (0845 241 1715, www.eclectics.co.uk) have a roller blind featuring a Clarissa Hulse design called Reeds. Pictured right in “Peat”, it’s a cool mix of blue and chocolate brown. Prices start at £75 for a 80x80cm roller blind, or choose Roman blinds  for a softer look. 

Q I have scraped my laminated wood floor moving the settee and can’t find a way to remove the mark. Can you help? – Maureen O’Connor, by email
A Zena says: This is tricky as I don’t know whether you’ve “torn” the laminate or marked it. If it’s the latter you could try using an eraser. If it’s the former I once had a laminate fitter who had a variety of coloured putties to fill in dents. So try contacting a fitter or use International’s 2 in 1 Laminate Floor Reviver and Restorer, £6.99 for a 500ml bottle (01480 484285, www.international-paints.co.uk). 

Q I’D like to grow a Japanese maple in a pot on the patio. Which variety do you recommend? – Alison Webb, Woodbridge, Suffolk
A Adrienne says: Go for a variety that is slow-growing and compact such as Acer palmatum Dissectum which has finely cut green foliage turning bronze in autumn and the purple-leafed Red Dragon, which grows to 5ft tall.