Be gone, pond algae

As pond water warms up, algae multiply, creating murky, green water and blanket weed. Remove blanket weed with a rake, then leave it by the pond overnight so that evicted wildlife can crawl back into the water. To prevent it reforming, cover at least a third of the water's surface with plants, including plenty of oxygenators, and reduce the number of fish (algae feed on their waste). Visit green-ways.co.uk for barley straw pads, which release soluble carbohydrates that clump green algae together, making them harmless.

How to compost grass

They may be abundant, but grass clippings are not an ideal compost material. They compress together, let in little air or water, then collapse into a slimy, stinking mess. But there is no excuse for slyly slipping them into the bin. When adding grass to the compost heap, have some old newspapers to hand and regularly make layers of crumpled-up paper to keep air content high and eco-halo bright.

Plant of the week

If you're a fan of gooseberries and blackcurrants, you'll love josta-berries. The fruit of this hybrid looks a bit like a large blackcurrant, albeit one that has a gooseberry kick to its flavour, making it particularly good for use in crumbles and jams. Not only that, but it is also rich in antioxidants. Grow in fertile soil in full sun. Readers can order one plant in a two-litre pot for £16.95, or two plants for £24.90 (prices include UK mainland p&p). Call 0870 836 0908, quoting reference GUPW86. Delivery within 28 days.