GARDEN GURU

Q I planted some Cupressus macrocarpa ‘Goldcrest’ conifers close to my bungalow many years ago. They were 2ft tall then, but they’re now enormous. Should I worry about the roots damaging my home? Pam Shallcross

A Cupressus macrocarpa ‘Goldcrest’ doesn’t have a particularly invasive root system, but your plants are way too close to your home. Tall conifers such as these need to be at least 10ft from buildings, not 1ft to 3ft. I suggest contacting a local arboriculturist, who is likely to advise having them removed.

Q I bought a squirrel-proof bird-feeder for my garden but took it down after seeing rats inside. Is there a way of deterring the rats? Christine Brown

A clever way of preventing A rats getting to bird food is to screw the squirrel-proof feeding device on to a birdfeeding pole, then smear the pole with petroleum jelly.

Q My young broad bean plants have been eaten by something, with holes appearing in every leaf. What pest might be responsible? Peter Williams

A One of the main pests of broad beans is pea and bean weevils. These bite U-shaped holes from around the outside of the leaf, resulting in a scalloped appearance. Damage is unlikely to have an impact on mature plants but it can check the growth of seedlings. Ensure plants outgrow damage by watering in dry spells and covering with fleece in cold weather in the spring.