QUICK QUESTIONS
Is there anything we can do to prevent the black spots in the fruit of our old ‘Bramley’ apple?
Jo Lockton, by email
This problem is called bitter pit and is caused by a shortage of the chemical element calcium. ‘Bramley’ is very prone to it and it’s worse in dry summers when the plant can’t absorb calcium easily. If the soil is very acidic you could try adding some lime, but on a big tree it’s very difficult to correct – although as it doesn’t affect the edibility of the fruit, I wouldn’t worry unduly.
How long should I leave my ‘Jetfire’ daffodils before cutting down?
Aimee Underwood, by email
‘Jetfire’ is my number one choice: they are neat, early flowering and long lasting. The rule with all types of bulbs is pretty much the same: leave the foliage for six weeks. After this time it will be of no further benefit to the plants and can be cut back.
Why do the buds fall off my gardenia every morning?
Caroline Mills, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk
You say the buds have dropped in the morning and this is because gardenias hate any change in their conditions. It’s the drop in temperature at night that is the cause of the trouble and unless you can keep them at a warm and steady temperature, I fear this problem will continue. They are truly beautiful but among the trickiest of all houseplants.
When is the best time to divide my big clumps of bergenia?
Hannah McDonagh, by email
This plant is sometimes called elephant’s ears because it has big, flappy leaves and it makes excellent ground cover in either sun or shade. It’s fairly tolerant of dry soil, too. It’s best divided in autumn, although you could do it now if you don’t delay, but you may need a spade to slice through its tough rootstock.