How to pep up your pots

Large containers planted with longterm shrubs may need attention. Potting compost can deteriorate over time, and that could damage plant health.

acidic soil plants — such as camellias (pictured) and rhododendrons — will become stressed if they are regularly given tap water.

all plants suffer if their growing medium deteriorates.

To prevent such problems, replace some of the potting compost. Use a small fork or trowel to dig gently into the top layer.

Tease out as much of the growing medium as possible, without causing significant

root damage. You may be able to scoop out as much as a quarter or even a third of f the compost. replace it with fresh, good- quality potting compost, mixing in slowrelease fertiliser granules as you back-fill.

remember to use ericaceous compost for camellias and other acid lovers. Loam-based composts are usually longer lasting than soilless ones and add weight to the container, improving stability.

You should also prune camellias now, before growth speeds up. remove aged or excessively woody branches. That will encourage new shoots, which will bear more flowers next year and thereafter. With healthy branches, remove overcrowded shoots and aim for a pleasing shape.