Mark Lane answers Telegraph Recommended reader questions

What’s your favourite tool to use?

Stephen, undisclosed

I love multi-headed tools such as Wolf Garten, as they allow me to take several tools around the garden in my trolley without taking up too much space. A simple click method makes changing the head easy and quick, while the various handles of different sizes and shapes makes gardening effortless.

How has climate change altered your gardening habits?

David, West Midlands

Plant choice is now very dictated by climate change. We’re getting hotter, drier summers and wetter, warmer winters that are not killing off pests and diseases.

I’ve also moved away from labour-intensive container gardening, growing just specimens in them now, with an automatic watering system where needed.

Collecting and storing water is also important. Saving this precious resource and using it throughout the year is better for your plants and your garden in general.

And when it comes to growing your own produce, plant selection is key. Think about using the Three Sisters approach based on the traditional indigenous method of companion planting that originated with Native American communities.

Corn or maize is planted first so that the tall stalks act like a trellis and shade the soil, slightly reducing moisture loss. Beans are then planted around the corn to fix nitrogen in the soil, enriching all three crops, reducing the need for added nutrients, and finally squash or pumpkin is planted on the edges as it spreads. With its broad leaves, it shades the soil and suppresses weeds.

What’s your favourite thing about gardening?

Jean, London 

I think getting lost in my own thoughts or letting my mind clear. It’s an act of mindfulness for me. I call gardening my green pill.

What’s your best tip for keeping weeds at bay?

Julie, London

Suppress weeds by mulching generously. Also improve the soil health, plant densely, removing weeds early, and try and avoid bare soil. Water precisely and stay consistent with regular maintenance throughout the growing season each year.

In addition, reuse delivery cardboard boxes, cut them up, lay them flat on the soil surface, and cover that with a mulch, either homemade compost or bark.

Alternatively, embrace the weeds as they’re great for pollinators.

What would you suggest to create a dog-friendly garden?

Helen, South West

Research dog-friendly plants and remember that a garden needs to be a sensory experience for them as well as you.

Use tough grass for lawn areas, as well as ornamental grasses for texture and sensory experience. Ensure you have secure boundaries.

Plant only those non-toxic plants such as sunflower, rosemary, snapdragons, marigold and remember to include shaded areas, especially important on hot summer days, and leave space for digging zones.

Access to fresh water is essential, especially during the summer, and avoid sharp features or poisonous plants for safe play and daily exercise needs.

Finally, you can’t be too precious about your plants if you have a dog. They will run where they want to go, crushing plants as they grow. My tip for this is to have some of your favourite plants in pots, so you can pop them in when needed.

What’s the best way to make use of a small space or balcony?

Siri, London

Use folding tables and chairs, pots and containers on wheels and hinge tables fixed to a wall so all could be moved to create an open space for exercising or entertaining.

Even with limited space, you can grow a surprising range of fruit and vegetables on a balcony or small garden. Opt for compact, container-friendly varieties and vertical solutions to maximise yield.

Cherry tomatoes, salad leaves such as lettuce, rocket and spinach, radishes, spring onions, dwarf beans, peppers, baby carrots and courgettes can all be grown in pots. Many herbs like basil, parsley, coriander and chives also thrive in small spaces, especially for vertical planting.

Strawberries, dwarf or bush-type blueberries, alpine or patio raspberries fix in pots and compact citrus like lemons, even melons or tomatoes can succeed if grown on a trellis or in hanging containers.

My tips for success: use good quality compost. Ensure pots have drainage, rotate crops to prevent nutrient depletion and water regularly. Consider stacking planters or vertical supports to make the most of your space while keeping plants healthy and productive.