Quick QUESTIONS
What is the best ground cover plant for under an oak tree? Karen Wa s, by email Over the years, I’ve become convinced that vinca (the periwinkle) takes some beating. The large species, Vinca major, is the most vigorous but it’s often plagued by rust disease and the variegated forms of Vinca minor are prettier. My favourite of all, which we’ve planted in an area beneath a large Norway maple, is the delightful, purple-flowered Vinca minor ‘Atropurpurea’.
Will apple canker spread to my new plum tree? Phil Grossman, by email The apple disease is canker, which is very common on old apple trees and is especially prevalent on certain varieties. But you need have no fear because the disease won’t affect plum trees, although if you plan to plant new apples too, be sure to ask the nursery for a variety that is canker-resistant.
I won’t have as much time to garden in the future and wonder which vegetables will put up with neglect? Wynne Williams, by Facebook I feel the most reliable, trouble-free vegetables, once they’re planted or sown, are probably potatoes, onions, lettuce, runner beans, cabbage, carrots and beetroot.
Can I cut back my tulip magnolia without spoiling it?
Jennifer London, by email The tulip-flowered magnolia, Magnolia soulangeana is one of the most popular varieties and will make a medium-sized tree. The only sensible way to prune it is by cutting off entire branches. Magnolias resent being pruned, but most of all, they resent being snipped.