Ease your houseplants into winter by giving them a seasonal reset and moving them away from radiators

The problem
As soon as the heating is switched on, houseplants start to struggle. Warm, dry air s…

Rubbing the inside of the peel over leaves will leave a glossy sheen, but is it any more effective than a damp cloth?

The problem
Dust isn’t just unsightly; it also blocks light from reaching your pl…

Electric humidifiers aren’t essential for hardy species, but they deliver a steady mist and consistent results – at a price

The problem
Winter is brutal for tropical houseplants. Central heating turn…

If the fronds have turned brown and crispy, all is not lost – this nifty, cost-free trick is surprisingly effective

The problem
Few plants test a person’s patience like ferns. One day they’re full o…

Dropped leaves and speckled dots indicate a thrips infestation. Luckily, there is plenty you can do about it

What’s the problem?
The leaves of my 40-year-old rubber plant are speckled with tiny black…

Corking is the most likely culprit, but it could be scale insects or fungus. Here’s how to check

What’s the problem?
My prickly pear (Opuntia) cactus is developing raised brown patches on both sides …

It’s actually a euphorbia, and some careful pruning will solve your problem – and result in a more attractive plant

What’s the problem?
I’ve had this cactus for many years, but it keeps getting talle…

It’s a buildup of mineral salts from hard tap water or fertiliser. Switching to rainwater or filtered water, and feeding only in spring and summer, will help

What’s the problem?
There is a chalky whi…

These are the fruiting bodies of fungi that live in compost. They are toxic if eaten but not harmful to plants

What’s the problem?
I’ve noticed tiny mushrooms popping up in my houseplant’s soil. Are …

Don’t panic! This plant has a natural seasonal rhythm, so resist the urge to overwater when it’s bare

What’s the problem?
My Euphorbia ritchiei sprouted a leaf, but it was accidentally knocked off an…