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Summer is the ideal time to take verbena cuttings. Overwinter the semi-hardy perennials in a frost-free place and you'll have a fresh, healthy supply of verbena plants next year to replace any in the garden that have been killed by frost

For the boldest, brightest display in a hanging basket choose a large container (no smaller than 35cm) and pack it with plants. But keeping them flowering is thirsty work, so for a really successful show the plants will need plenty of water on a

-summerKeeping other moths at bayCabbage white caterpillars on brassicas and nasturtiums.Codling moth on apples, pears, quince and walnuts.Mullein moth on verbascum, buddleja and figwort.Caterpillars on any plants.

infestations, scrape off the scales by hand and dispose of them. For heavy infestations, prune out those branches that are badly affected. Spray with a plant oil wash in winter.Spray the young scales in mid-July and early September with a systemic insecticide

The culprit is the flea beetle, which, like its namesake, jumps away when disturbed. The small, shiny, black, brown or blue beetles emerge in April and May, after winter hibernation, ready to start feeding. Eggs laid near host plants hatch in late

to feed. After 2-3 weeks, the larvae pupate inside the leaves and emerge as adults. The damage is mostly cosmetic but where many leaves are affected, the plant may be weakened or die. Different species of leaf miner fly affect specific plants.A maze

Soft-bodied, 4mm-long mealybugs are often found on greenhouse plants and house plants such as cacti and succulents, feeding on their sap. They are covered by a white, waxy secretion, and congregate in leaf axils and other inaccessible parts

This container is proof that simple arrangements can produce dramatic results. Agapanthus plants produce beautiful sky-blue flowers on long elegant stems throughout the summer months. The plants are easy to grow and thrive in pots. Although it can

Aster 'Monte Cassino'Ornamental cabbageSedumCarex 'Frosted Curls'Large potMulti-purpose compostCrocksPosition the container where it will provide maximum impact. Place a layer of crocks at the bottom, then three-quarters fill with compost.Plant the aster

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