GARDEN GURU

What is wrong with the Q low box hedge in my front garden? Patches of dead growth have appeared along its length. David Bowery

There are two possibilities: A box tree caterpillars or box blight. First, check dead patches for caterpillars, webbing and their droppings. Pick off by hand and spray regularly with a suitable insecticide. Box blight is a fungal disease that can be hard to eliminate. Prune out badly affected areas and treat with Topbuxus tonic. Remove any fallen debris from the ground and replace the top layer of soil around the hedge – fungal spores can remain active in the ground for many years.

I have planted up some Q hanging baskets with ‘Cool Wave’ pansies. Should I keep the containers indoors until the plants are more established? Sylvia Ramsay

These are as tough as old A boots, so don’t be afraid to hang your baskets outside.

Q We’ve taken on a ten-yearold labrador bitch. She’s lovely but wees on the lawn, which is now dotted with brown patches. What can we do? Mrs M. Oldfield

Dog urine is high in nitrogen A

and has the ability to scorch grass if concentrations are strong enough. It’s possible to prevent damage by watering down urine immediately. Another option is to add Dog Rocks to her water bowl. The special stones are claimed to remove nitrates from the water and last for up to two months (£13, Pets at Home).