* Blueberry bushes can be planted now. They need acid soil: if yours is not suitable, grow them in containers of ericaceous compost, in a sunny, sheltered corner. Keep the compost moist during the main growing season — using rainwater wherever possible — and apply a suitable feed in the spring. Grow at least two varieties in close proximity to guarantee cross-pollination.

* Start harvesting parsnips after the first frosts. The roots are very tough and can be left in the ground all winter and lifted as required. If a long spell of freezing weather is forecast, it may be difficult to unearth them, so lift a few roots in advance and store in boxes of sand.

Readers' questions

My elaeagnus has lots of pinkish spots on two of its stems. Why?

K Pressman, by e-mail

This is a classic sign of coral spot, a fungal disease that usually attacks dead and weak stems. In severe cases, it results in wilting and dieback. Prune out the affected areas to healthy wood, at least 6in down the stem.

When should I prune my Victoria plum tree?

G Francis, by e-mail

Stone fruits such as cherries and plums are highly susceptible to a nasty fungal disease called silver leaf, which causes the leaves to take on a silvery sheen and, often, the branches to die back. The spores usually infect trees through pruning wounds (and damaged branches) between September and May. For this reason, always prune your plum tree during the summer.

gardenexpert@sunday-times.co.uk

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