Got a problem in your plot? Let our Garden Guru Martyn Cox help you out

QA small pond was added to my garden six years ago. There’s a lot of silt on the bottom that needs removing. Is there a good time to do this? I’m worried about disturbing wildlife.

Jackie Langham

ASmall ponds need cleaning out every five years. The best time to do this is early autumn, before aquatic creatures go into hibernation. Start by bailing out the water with a bucket, pouring some into large containers that can be used to temporarily home any wildlife. Remove marginal plants and oxygenators, then scoop out silt. Thin out congested plants, leaving the waste on the edge of the pond so hidden wildlife can escape. Put plants back in place, refill the pond and return the contents of the containers.

QI have two very large pyracanthas in my garden with berries that are starting to t turn black. What could be wrong?

Doreen Bolding

AThis sounds like pyracantha scab, a fairly common fungal disease that attacks berries, flowers and leaves. Spores can over-winter on dead parts of the plant, so rake up fallen leaves and remove infected stems and clusters of dying berries. Burn the debris. Spray the plant with Westland Plant Rescue Fungus Control when the flower buds start to swell in spring, followed by another dose two weeks later. Email questions to info@martyncox.biz