QUESTION

MY BEDDED auriculas have been keeling over. When I investigated, the roots were eaten away. What caused such destruction and how can I stop it happening again? H. Allen, Lincolnshire.

YOUR description suggests vine weevil. The larvae of these small beetles live on the roots of plants.

Vine weevil grubs are comma shaped, pale cream with a tan head. If you find any in the ground, crush them. You can control infestations with nematodes available online from suppliers such as nematodes

direct.co.uk or greengardener.co.uk. Apply now and again in September.