Would ordinary whitewash painted onto my glasshouse reduce summer heat?
I cannot find any commercial brand similar to the Coolglass of years ago.
No, whitewash would not do for shading. In fact it would be detrimental to the greenhouse for the cement content in it would mean that it could not be washed off when dull conditions return in autumn.
Rose leaves affected by black spotSome of my roses have terrific foliage but many of the others have dull leaves and spotty markings. They all get the same treatment. Why is this?
Rose foliage quality depends on variety. The same applies to the likes of camellias —smooth and glossy in one variety, and utterly dull and lifeless in the next.
You seem to be getting good results with some so continue as you have been, using a good commercial brand of food and fungal control.
Watsonia wedding bellsWhere can I source Watsonias? Saw these in some open gardens quite recently and would love to be able to get a few for myself. Any suggestions?
Three suggestions, one of which might help. First, keep an eye out at sales tables at open gardens.
Second, join a garden club this coming autumn or thirdly, write to Broadleigh Gardens, Bishops Hull, Taunton, Somerset TA4 1AE asking for a catalogue.
Compost heaps need moistureMy compost heap has slowed down its decomposition rate quite considerably of late even though I use activators regularly.
Can you suggest as to how I can get it working faster again? With autumn approaching and much to be converted into compost your advice would be an invaluable help.
This will sound unusual, but try wetting the heap.
It is not generally realised that a compost heap needs adequate moisture in order to keep building up high temperatures, and during summer or periods of drought this can sometimes happen.
After each addition or layer wet the heap with at least a watering can of water.
