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to the same plant. It's only a significant problem when young plants are being defoliated or you're growing specimens for a show. Bees snip out elliptical sections of leaf margins, particularly on roses, and use them to make thimble-shaped cells in their nests

and fruit. Clear up infected, fallen leaves around trees. Cover fence or wall-trained trees with polythene sheet in January and February to prevent development of fungus. Alternatively, erect an open-sided 'tent' over bushes in the open garden. Mulch around

, onto lower leaves where it encourages black sooty mould to grow. If left, this weakens the growth of the plant.When you brush past your plants in the greenhouse clouds of tiny white flies fill the air.Hang up yellow sticky traps to catch flying adults

Alys Fowler's top 10 veg plantsWith increased awareness of organic farming, food miles and healthy eating, many more people are trying their hand at growing vegetables. We caught up with Alys Fowler at the Chelsea Flower Show for some tips

trees and bushesall year roundMore common garden pestsWoolly aphidsScale insectsPear leaf blister miteLeafhopper

The mullein moth, Cucullia verbasci, lays its eggs on verbascum, buddleia and figwort at the end of spring. Shortly after, from late spring to midsummer, the caterpillars demolish the foliage. Bad infestations can actually strip a plant. They then hide in the soil to pupate.Cater...

are very effective, but compost with the chemical imidacloprid controls the larvae for up to a year. Other formulations provide just short-term protection.many plants, container-grown plants are especially vulnerableall year roundMore common garden pests

these plants at your local nursery and it's possible to plant the skimmias and stipas in the garden when they outgrow the display.Put safety first: be sure to buy lights that are safe for outdoor use, which usually means they'll have a transformer between

Sarah Raven demonstrates how to plant up a container of spring-flowering bulbs, narcissus, crocus and tulips, in our video guideautumnspringMore autumn planting projectsPot of azaleas and campanulas.Early spring-flowering container with thyme and pansies.Primula container.Woodlan...

. Choose large plants for instant impact.More advice on growing herbsHow to pick herbs effectively.Learn about medicinal herbs.Planting up a hanging basket with parsley and tomatoes.Potting up a window box with herbs.Propagating lavender and rosemary.