The Gardening Year

Watch out for

Root rot: Ensure excellent drainage in bark-based compost and avoid letting the pot sit in standing water.

Mealybugs: Wipe affected areas with a cloth dampened with methylated spirit or apply insecticidal soap.

Scale insects: Scrape off visible scales manually and treat with a systemic insecticide if infestation persists.

Leaf tip burn: Maintain consistent humidity above 50% and avoid direct exposure to cold draughts or radiators.

Vine weevil: Use nematode treatments in the compost during warmer months to control soil-dwelling larvae.