GARDEN GURU

Q When I harvested my leeks, I found the outer layers had been eaten and discovered small brown grubs near the core. What attacked them? David Tarbun

A Your leeks have been targeted by allium leaf miner or leek moth. To prevent future attacks, clear the site of any leeks to stop them overwintering, and dig over the soil to expose pests to birds.

Q We have an 18ft-tall monkey puzzle tree. This year the tree has turned almost completely brown, although the top is still green. What has happened, and will it survive? Barry Mason

A I suspect your tree is suffering from drought stress caused by this year’s dry summer. As the top of the tree is green, there is still a slim hope it will recover. My advice is to make sure you keep the ground around its base clear of weeds, grass or other plants that will compete for moisture. From spring onwards, water regularly.

Q Earlier this year I sowed sweet pepper seeds that were dated 2013. After germination, I split the rootball apart and put in individual pots. However, the plants don’t look like peppers. What do you think? Eric Hughes

A I think the seedlings in the photo you emailed are zantedeschia, or arum lilies, moisture-loving perennials grown for their foliage and white flowers. Maybe their rhizomes were in compost you recycled?