Gardening: Your questions answered (Sept 6) | Brian Kidd

Q: I have three chrysanthemums which look great and I am looking forward to the blooms in a few weeks. I’ve never grown them before. One plant has several leaves which are being spoiled because there are lines through the leaf. Can you tell me what this is and how to remedy the situation please. BP, Southsea.

A: This is called chrysanthemum leaf miner, thanks for the sample in dry paper. Pick off all the infested leaves and put them in a paper bag and remove from the garden. If left the problem will affect the other chrysanthemums. There are no chemical remedies.

Q: I have a gallon can of creosote substitute I bought 10 years ago and the seal is intact. Is it legal to use and will it work as a fence post preservative. HD, Havant.

A: It is legal to use and it will work. Don’t let it touch plants as it will kill them.

Q: Our little boy planted a Cox’s orange Pippin apple seed in a pot three years ago. I have kept it small and it is now in a 12in-diameter pot in John Innes No3 compost. When do you think it will fruit and will it be a Cox? GS, Hambledon.

A: As you have been pruning it as the book tells you, it will fruit next year. It will not be a Cox though, but could be a nice fruit.

• Got a question for Brian? Click here and fire away and don’t forget to attach a photograph if necessary.

• A message from the editor, Mark Waldron.

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