What are the trees planted by the two princes and where are they located?

The palm trees are Trachycarpus fortunei and they are outside the Temperate House, the largest Victorian glasshouse in the world.

Can I still see carryas (hickories) at Kew?

The main Hickory or Carrya collection was next to Lion Gate but there are few specimens left there. There are many others across the site, including some large trees on the main Vistas.

Why does Kew compost so much material?

Kew's soil is hungry, sandy, droughty thin sand on Thames Gravel and doesn't hold any moisture or nutrient. The compost produced is therefore vital and the Kew compost heap produces enough for us to be self-sufficient - www.kew.org/places/kew/
compostheap.html

What is the rare orchid that was featured in the programme?

The orchid is the critically endangered red helleborine. See the plant profile at www.kew.org/plants/
orchids/red_helleborine.html

What work is Kew doing on the DNA of these orchids?

Measuring the variability within and between the three populations in the UK will help determine the most effective way of conserving the species.

What plants were used in the bedding in 2004 featured in the programme?

The Palm House formal beds were planted in a Cottage Garden theme. You can find out more details about the plants used there and for the roundabouts at www.kew.org/plants/
summerbedding2004

What is the theme for bedding in 2005?

This year the bedding has been inspired by the exhibition Gardens of Glass: Chihuly at Kew and you can find out more information at www.kew.org/plants/summerbedding

What is lupin aphid and how can it be treated?

Kew cannot give specific gardening advice. Information about lupin aphid can be found at the Royal Horticutural Society's website at www.rhs.org.uk

How can I arrange a school visit?

Full details on arranging school visits including booking forms can be found at www.kew.org/education

Can my school attend a course at Kew?

The course in the programme was a special one. Similar courses covering forensic pollen analysis can be arranged for a charge with at least 2 months notice. Requests should be faxed to schools bookings 020 8332 5640. Kew also offers teacher training in molecular biology.