The Gardening Year

Watch out for

Root rot: Ensure well-draining compost and allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.

Mealybugs: Isolate the plant and treat with a systemic insecticide or wipe off with alcohol-dampened cotton buds.

Scale insects: Remove manually with a soft brush or apply a suitable horticultural oil spray.

Sunburn: Gradually acclimatise the plant to brighter conditions and avoid direct midday sun in summer.

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