I have a south-facing bed of roses but many need replacing as they’re 50 years old. I have been told not to plant new roses into old rose beds as the soil suffers from ‘rose-sickness’. How can I avoid this problem?
You did hear correctly so the best approach with old rose beds is to dig out the soil and replace with fresh. If only a few roses are to be replaced then take out the old roses, enlarge each vacant hole so as to accommodate a cardboard box (to its top rim) then plant into this using fresh soil.
My apple trees suffer the effects of winter moth each year, but I can never seem to find out how, or when, to take measures against this pest. What course of action should I take?
The wingless females climb up apple trees during September and later. They lay their eggs and these hatch out as grubs in spring to eat the flowers and foliage. Prevent this happening by putting grease bands on your apple trees immediately.
Has there been any advance in machine technology for cleaning brick driveways? I have to scrape weeds and moss from mine and it takes me ages. Any suggestions?
Try one of the large German multi-national outlets. I saw an electric model last week for about £50, one that cleans moss and weeds from between pavers and brick driveways.
There are some very attractive Hebes on the market just now and one in particular that I have bought is called ‘Orphan Annie’. Is this variety hardy?
I have grown ‘Orphan Annie’ for the past number of years and it is no problem in cold frosty weather.
