I am often asked, both on the Radio and at talks to Gardening Clubs and Ladies Luncheon Clubs about looking after houseplants, and in particular making sure that they are not overwatered.

The easiest way to stop yourself overwatering houseplants is actually very simple.

1. Go out into the garden and choose a nice pebble which has a nice oval shape.

2. Wash it and dry it.

3. Place it on top of the compost on the pot of the houseplant in question.

4. In the morning lift the stone up. If it is damp underneath the plant has plenty of moisture, step away from the watering can. If the pebble is dry then it is OK to water the plant with tepid water.

It is as simple as that.

This and many more tips like it are featured in my Tips and Tricks talk.