‘To keep black refuse sacks rigid while filling them either to make compost in bags or for disposal as appropriate, I use a piece of old vinyl floor covering, roughly 28" by 60", depending on the size of the sack. Roll up the vinyl and put it into the sack, opening it out to cover the base. When the sack is full, the vinyl is removed.’

This Practical Tip was sent in by Lucy Hughes, Malahide, Co. Dublin for which she receives a ten-issue subscription to ‘The Irish Garden’ — the prize for a Practical Tip published on this page. Tips may relate to any aspect of gardening or growing plants. New ideas, effective short-cuts and clever insights on plants or techniques are particularly welcome. There’s a better chance of winning if you include a photograph of the Tip.