The Gardening Year

Watch out for

Slugs and snails: Use beer traps, copper tape barriers, or hand-pick at night to reduce populations.

Vine weevil: Apply nematode biological controls in late summer or use chemical drenches for potted plants.

Powdery mildew: Ensure good air circulation and water at the base to keep foliage dry; treat with fungicide if severe.

Corm rot: Plant in well-drained soil and keep completely dry during summer dormancy.

Aphids: Encourage natural predators like ladybirds or use insecticidal soap for heavy infestations.