Gardening Q&A: Expert Advice for All Your Plant Queries
Introduction
Welcome to our monthly Q&A column, where our expert horticulturalists answer your most pressing gardening questions. This month, we’ll delve into a variety of topics, including plant care, pest control, and troubleshooting common gardening problems.
Water Butt Questions
Q: My water butt smells. Can I still use this water for plants?
A: Yes, you can use smelly water butt water for plants, but only if the smell is mild and not caused by contamination. If the water has a strong odor, it’s best to avoid using it on edible plants or plants susceptible to disease. To reduce the smell, clean your water butt regularly and keep it covered when not in use.
Plant Care Queries
Q: How do I care for my banana plant over winter?
A: Banana plants are not cold-hardy, so they need special care during winter. Bring them indoors to a warm, well-lit spot and continue watering them sparingly. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Q: How can I help my amaryllis flower again?
A: After flowering, allow the amaryllis to rest for a few months. Then, repot it in fresh potting mix and place it in a sunny spot. Water regularly and fertilize monthly to encourage new blooms.
Pest Control
Q: My beech hedge is infested with woolly aphids. What should I do?
A: Woolly aphids can be controlled using organic methods such as spraying them with a strong jet of water or using horticultural oil. You can also release beneficial insects, such as ladybugs, into your garden to prey on the aphids.
Troubleshooting
Q: Hardly any of my beetroot plugs have grown. What has happened?
A: Beetroot plugs may fail to grow due to various reasons, including poor soil conditions, overwatering, or insect damage. Check the soil pH and ensure it’s between 6.0 and 7.0. Avoid overwatering and protect your beetroot from pests such as slugs and snails.
Greenhouse and Mulching
Q: What can I use my greenhouse for over winter?
A: Greenhouses can be used for a variety of purposes over winter, including protecting tender plants, starting seeds, and growing winter salads. Make sure to insulate your greenhouse and provide adequate ventilation to prevent extreme temperature fluctuations.
Q: How do I winter mulch a block of perennials without burying the crowns?
A: To winter mulch perennials without burying their crowns, use a loose, organic material such as straw or shredded leaves. Spread the mulch around the base of the plants, but leave a few inches of space around the crowns to prevent rot.
Rose Care
Q: How can I improve the flowering of an old climbing rose?
A: To improve the flowering of an old climbing rose, prune it regularly to remove dead or diseased canes. Fertilize it in early spring and again after flowering. Water deeply and regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
Tree Problems
Q: Do I need to remove a variegated alder that has coral spots on the bark?
A: Coral spots on the bark of variegated alders are caused by a fungus called Nectria cinnabarina. While this fungus is not harmful to the tree, it can spread to other trees, so it’s best to remove any infected branches.
Lawn Care
Q: How do I get rid of worm casts in my lawn?
A: Worm casts can be unsightly, but they are also beneficial for your lawn. If you want to remove them, you can use a lawn roller or a broom to break them up. Alternatively, you can encourage earthworms to move deeper into the soil by aerating your lawn regularly.
Hydrangea and Compost
Q: What is the best way to revive badly dehydrated potted hydrangeas?
A: To revive dehydrated potted hydrangeas, soak them in a bucket of water for several hours. Once they have absorbed enough water, remove them from the bucket and allow them to drain. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight until they have fully recovered.
Q: I often read about adding ‘loam’ to compost. What is ‘loam’?
A: Loam is a type of soil that is a mixture of sand, silt, and clay. It is considered ideal for gardening because it has good drainage and moisture retention. You can add loam to your compost to improve its structure and fertility.
Additional Questions
- How often should I water my dahlias and sweet peas?
- What should I do about powdery mildew on my plants?
- When is a good time to take cuttings from my leggy pinks?
- Why are my vegetable plants all leaves and no fruit?
- Should I prune my summer-fruiting raspberries to encourage next year’s harvest?
We hope these answers help you solve your gardening problems. If you have any further questions, don’t hesitate to contact our experts.
