The Gardening Year

Watch out for

Slugs and snails: Use physical barriers like copper tape or crushed eggshells, and apply iron phosphate pellets around the base.

Grey mould (Botrytis): Improve air circulation, remove affected plant parts immediately, and avoid wetting foliage when watering.

Root rot: Ensure soil is well-drained and fertile; avoid overwatering and ensure pots have adequate drainage holes.

Vine weevil: Apply systemic insecticides to the soil in autumn or use biological controls like nematodes.

Powdery mildew: Spray with a fungicide at first sign of infection and ensure good air circulation around the plant.