GARDEN GURU

Q How can I move a wellloved rose bush without damaging its roots? Les Brown

A The best time is late winter or early spring, while it’s still dormant. First, cut back shoots to half their height to make the bush easier to handle. Using the spread of the upper branches as a guide, dig a trench around the plant and then undercut, aiming to remove as large a rootball as possible. Place in a new hole immediately and water regularly.

Q I have a shrub that has stems with spines that run all along their length, and leaves that turn a lovely deep pink in autumn. What is it? John Whatmough

A The plant in the picture you sent me is Euonymus alatus, a deciduous shrub known as burning bush due to its fine autumn foliage. Its shoots are adorned with raised corky ridges. The Latin word alatus means ‘winged’ and refers to this feature.

Q I have a 20-year-old oak tree in a large container which I’ve raised from an acorn. I want it planted somewhere appropriate after my demise, but the leaves are showing signs of disease. What can I do to treat the problem? Mavis Massingham

A I don’t think you need to worry. The tiny, flattish lumps under the leaves are galls, saucer-shaped discs that protect the larvae of a gall wasp. Although unsightly, they do not affect the vigour of the plant.