IT SOUNDS like something from Day of the Triffids, the classic tale of plants taking over the world.But this is not the work of science fiction, this is a real life story that shop owner Brian Skeet knows only too well.

By Nick Richards

By NICK RICHARDS

nick.richards@evenignstar.co.uk

IT SOUNDS like something from Day of the Triffids, the classic tale of plants taking over the world.

But this is not the work of science fiction, this is a real life story that shop owner, Brian Skeet, knows only too well.

When Mr Skeet, who owns Hairtistique in Cliff Lane, Ipswich agreed to swap premises with neighbouring antique shop, Déjà vu, run by Richard Andrews, he didn't reckon on the additional headache of moving a massive rubber plant.

Mr Skeet, who owns both shop premises, agreed to move into the smaller of the two to allow Mr Andrews to expand in the larger shop.

Now the hairdresser needs your help to give the plant a good short, back and sides.

He explained: "We want to know if anyone knows how to prune it so that it can be taken out of the shop, or better still if anyone wants it, they can come and take it.

"Over the years it has been hacked back but it still reaches the ceiling and has grown almost across the window. It's got to the stage where it's taking over the shop and needs some attention."

He said the plant is more than 10ft in height and has grown about four feet in the last 19 years since he inherited it.

Mr Andrews said that as much as the giant plant is a feature of the hair salon and he is loathe to see it go when he moves in, the triffid just has to be found a new home.

"It is a shame to part with it but there just won't be room for the two of us," he added.

n If anyone can offer any advice on pruning, or if they would like to take the plant away, please call 01473 218988.

Weblinks

www.thegardenhelper.com/ficus

www.mgonline.com/rubber