DEAR MISS MANNERS: I inwardly cringe when I’m given a plant that doesn’t fit with my garden plan. I usually let it sit in its pot for a while and eventually drop it into the compost heap.

Which is the better response: Accept the gift and later compost it? Or tell the person I’d prefer to decline their gift, as it doesn’t fit my plan?

GENTLE READER: The former. The plant, even if its feelings are hurt, won’t be able to tell anyone.

Please send your questions to Miss Manners at missmanners.com, by email to [email protected], or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.