Here is a simple way of growing garlic roots for the root tip squash practical - a modification of the method using polystyrene ceiling tiles.

Pipe insulation with an internal diameter of approximately 15 mm is readily obtainable from a range of DIY stores. It is easily cut with scissors or a knife and we find that lengths of 1.5 to 2 cm are suitable. Cloves of varying diameters can sit in these rings of foam and if the cloves are very small, two can be placed side by side.

There is something very satisfying seeing garlic cloves with their very own lifebelts bobbing about on a tray of water.

1. Use pipe insulation with an approx internal diameter of 18 mm

Slice into sections measuring approx 15 mm in depth

2. Separate garlic bulb into cloves and insert one (or two small) into each ring.

3. Float rings on water in a suitable tray. Ice-cream containers are ideal. Snip off root tips as required after 3 to 4 days.

Mrs Alouisa Dawkins
(Bancroft's School, Woodford Green, Essex)