Problems solved
More problems solved
Stop slugs and snails They do most damage in damp weather. Reduce numbers and protect vulnerable plants and seedlings with organic ferric phosphate pellets.
Combat couch grass This is the tough grass that invades flowerbeds. Fork it out as soon as you see it, repeatedly, as any roots left behind are likely to regrow.
Keep containers watered Pots and hanging baskets dry out quickly in summer, so if you don’t have time to water daily by hand, buy a watering system with plastic tubes you connect to a tap. Add a timer to go automatic.
Grow taller sunflowers Protect young plants from slugs and snails
(see above), tie the stems to sturdy sticks for support, and water at least twice a week.
Eliminate ground elder
If you’ve no time to dig it out, cover it with several layers of cardboard. You can even build a raised bed on top as it shouldn’t grow through.
Banish rats Never leave cooked food in the garden and don’t let bird food pile up beneath feeders. Also search at bit.ly/living-with-wildlife
for advice from the RSPCA.