Q: Some wonderful shamrocks have come up in our back yard. They have lavender flowers that close up in the evening. Is it unusual for shamrocks to come up voluntarily like this?

A: This is perfectly normal; shamrock seeds and tubers are spread by animals and insects. While the plant is attractive for a few weeks, it fades in summer heat. Also be on the lookout for orange pustules on the leaves, which signify hard-to-control rust disease.