I think that any garden that is producing metre-high parsley plants and kale leaves the size of oars can't be too compromised, but there is a growing sentiment in the organic gardening community that tap water may compromise the long-term health of your soil.

Our condo has two balconies and a large garden at the front of the building that we are planting. Both balconies, and the open garden area, are in shade. Can you suggest some plants? We'd love colourful blooms. So far, we have found that hostas, ferns and impatiens do well.

It may look easy enough, but it isn't. Pruning can be tricky, even dangerous - especially if you are up on a ladder, trying to cut large branches.

For many of us, palm trees swaying in the breeze is an idyllic image. And if you've just come back from a tropical vacation, that image can be a tough one to shake. But who says you can't have a living reminder of the tropics in your home? Fortunately, there are quite a few palms that grow surprisingly well indoors. Here's what you need to know about growing one.

If you've started 2012 with some resolutions in mind, perhaps starting your own annuals and vegetables from seed is one of them. However, you might be feeling some trepidation about this.