The Gardening Year

Watch out for

Dutch elm disease: Remove and burn infected wood immediately to prevent beetle spread; avoid wounding trees.

Honey fungus: Improve drainage and soil aeration; remove infected roots and apply registered fungicides if severe.

Aphids: Encourage natural predators like ladybirds or use a strong jet of water to dislodge them.

Coral spot: Prune out and destroy affected wood to reduce spore load and improve tree health.

Phytophthora root rot: Ensure well-drained soil conditions and avoid waterlogging around the root zone.