Pick this
My children were fascinated to hear we have genuine mummies in our garden; their enthusiasm dipped a little when I explained that I was talking about the shrivelled brown clumps in our plum tree. These mummified fruits are caused by brown rot, a fungal disease that strikes apples, plums, cherries, peaches and other fruit trees. If you have mummies hanging on your tree or lying around its base, help to curb the spread of brown rot by collecting them up and binning them (or bury at least 1ft underground).
Spy this
Fingers crossed for clear skies on 28 November as the Swansea Astronomical Society hosts a star party at the National Botanic Garden of Wales, Llanarthne, Carmarthenshire. You’ll be able to join the stargazers beside the backdrop of the spectacular Great Glasshouse from 6.30-9pm. More details at gardenofwales.org.uk.
Plant this
Need a tough, compact rose for a pot or small border? Rose ‘Blue Eyes’ repeat flowers from June to October, its semi-double blooms blending from white to deep mauve. Height and spread, 120cm x 90cm. Order one bareroot plant for £14.99, or two for £19.98. All orders include free p&p. To order, call 0330 333 6856 quoting ref GU263, or go to theguardian.com/offers/plants. Delivery December 2014.
