The Gardening Year

Watch out for

Glasshouse red spider mite: Increase humidity around the plant and treat with a suitable horticultural oil or biological control.

Mealybugs: Wipe off infestations with a damp cloth dipped in methylated spirit or apply insecticidal soap.

Fluted scale: Scrape off visible scales and treat with a systemic insecticide or horticultural oil in spring.

Honey fungus: Improve drainage and remove infected roots; severe cases may require removing the plant.

Frost damage: Plant in a sheltered location and provide winter protection or grow under glass in colder areas.