The Gardening Year

Watch out for

Vine weevil: Apply nematodes in autumn or use a systemic insecticide drench for potted plants.

Powdery mildew: Improve air circulation and apply a fungicide if infection is severe; otherwise tolerate.

Bud blast: Remove and destroy infected buds promptly if practical to prevent spread.

Rhododendron leafhopper: Encourage natural predators like ladybirds; use insecticidal soap for heavy infestations.

Pieris lacebug: Prune out heavily infested shoots and apply horticultural oil or insecticide if necessary.