Let’s have a proper look at pests and plant problems. It’s not the nicest part of gardening, I know, but it’s an important one. When plants are in full growth, especially in summer, that’s exactly when pests and diseases like to sneak in and cause trouble.

Here in Dorset and across the South West, we’ve got a lovely climate for gardening — but it’s also a climate that pests love too. Our mild winters and warm, often damp summers are perfect for things like aphids, mildew, vine weevil, and more. Whether you’re in a coastal spot or further inland, it’s worth keeping an eye out for these common issues from spring through to early autumn.

If you scroll through the photos in the gallery below, you’ll see some of the main problems to watch for, plus a couple of signs that things might not be quite right.

Aphids
These tiny green, black or white insects often cluster around soft new growth and under leaves. They suck the sap from your plants and can leave behind sticky residue, curled leaves, and distorted shoots. They multiply quickly, especially during warm spells.

What to do:
Wipe them off with your fingers or a blast of water to start with. If they’re not shifting, try Rose Clear, Provanto Smart Bug Killer, or Bug Clear Ultra. And if you spot a ladybird, leave it be — they’re brilliant at clearing up aphids naturally.

Powdery Mildew
This one looks like a dusty white coating on leaves and stems. It’s common in dry conditions with poor airflow, and can make your plants look dull and tired.

What to do:
Remove affected leaves, improve air circulation, and water the soil rather than the leaves. Fungus Clear or Rose Clear can help get it under control.

Rust
Rust often shows up as small orange or reddish spots on the underside of leaves, with pale or yellow patches on top. It’s common on hollyhocks, roses, and some herbs, especially in warm, moist conditions.

What to do:
Remove affected leaves as soon as you spot them and avoid overhead watering. Improve airflow around plants, and treat with Fungus Clear if the problem continues.

Black Spot
Black spot is mostly seen on roses but can spread to other plants too. It starts as dark spots on the leaves which then turn yellow and drop off. It tends to show up in warm, damp conditions.

What to do:
Remove any spotted leaves and pick up anything that’s fallen to the ground. Avoid splashing the leaves when watering. Rose Clear is designed to treat black spot as well as other fungal issues.

Spider Mites
Hard to see at first, but you’ll notice tiny speckled markings on the leaves, sometimes with fine webbing between stems. They like hot, dry weather and can weaken the plant quite quickly.

What to do:
Raise humidity by misting or damping the area around the plant. For heavier infestations, use Bug Clear Ultra or introduce MightyBugs that target spider mites.

Mealybugs & Scale Insects
These pests often hide in crevices and along stems. Mealybugs look like white fluff, while scale insects appear as small brown discs stuck to the plant.

What to do:
Wipe off what you can and treat with Bug Clear Ultra 2. Persistent cases may need repeat applications or biological control if preferred.

Ladybirds – Your Garden Helpers
If you see a ladybird or their larvae on your plants, that’s a very good sign. They love to eat aphids and other small insects, and can help keep your garden balanced naturally.

What to do:
Nothing! Let them do their work. If you want more of them, avoid spraying unless absolutely necessary and consider planting pollinator-friendly flowers nearby.

If you’re not sure what’s affecting your plant, bring in a photo or a leaf and me or one of the team will help you figure it out. We’ve got plenty of options in the garden care area, and we’re always happy to guide you to the right one.

See you soon

Sue

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