The Gardening Year

Watch out for

Root rot: Ensure sharp drainage with gritty compost and water only when dry, keeping plants almost dry in winter.

Mealybugs: Isolate the plant and treat infestations with a systemic insecticide or dab spots with alcohol-soaked cotton.

Vine weevil: Use nematode treatments in the soil during warm months or apply a systemic insecticide to prevent larval damage.

Aphids: Knock off pests with a strong jet of water or apply a suitable insecticidal soap or systemic treatment.

Leaf burn: Water with rainwater instead of tap water to avoid damage from fluoride and other dissolved salts.