Keep a beady eye out for pests in January?particularly those that can damage that well-kept lawn
What to do in the garden in January:
- Mow lawns Lawnmowing isn't pruning in the strictest sense, but it's bound to be the most important cutting-back job for January. Don't be tempted to ''scalp'' the
grass. Leave enough leaf so that the soil stays cool and is, as a result, less likely to dry out.
- Feed pot plants Make a New Year's resolution to feed all your pot plants. Dry, salty fertilisers can burn their roots, so it's best to use controlled-release pellets.
- Watch for pests Summer lawns can be attacked by various pests and diseases. Watch for Porina caterpillars that chew grass leaves. They're most active during autumn but removing thatch (built-up dead material) from soil level will help keep them from establishing. If they do take hold, treat the lawn with soil insect killer.
- Care for roses Summer is a respite period for roses. The frantic flower flushes that characterise spring are over and the full blossomed autumn displays are yet to come. So this is the right time to cut back, tidy up and take control of pests and diseases.
