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I always have the best of intentions post-Christmas. After the blow-out session that is the traditional festive season, I approach new year with the firm belief that I will treat my body like a temple, drink plenty of water and only touch wine

the trip in my tiny motor - but I thought it would pick up. And it would have if I'd treated it well; planting it with plenty of organic matter and bone meal, pruning off the dead, diseased and damaged wood, and watering it in the dry summer last year

valuable nectar and pollen for visiting insects. During the summer months it's important to take precautions against the sun and heat. I always make sure I wear plenty of sunscreen and take a large bottle of water to drink from. I've started visiting

, while improving its structure and water-retaining ability.But this year there's a problem. The RHS Members' Advisory Service has received a high number of calls from gardeners reporting abnormal growth of various vegetable crops, including potatoes

and runner beans, dahlias and Philadelphus - all my favourites!With large infestations I resort to my tried and tested weapon of choice - a plant sprayer bottle filled with water and household detergent. The detergent covers the aphids' breathing holes

are struggling to keep their heads above water. Usually I find a spring dose of nematodes sorts out the worst of the problem and keeps the little blighters at bay while my plants get established. But this year it's not just the little blighters that are wreaking