A Portuguese introduction

[aafonsodias]

Garlic will be fine outside, I planted mine outside at the end of October, and this is England. You will want something 25 cm deep, or a bit more, and keep them about 15 cm apart, or just over. I say 'A bit more' and 'Just over' because most plants will pay you back if you give them something a bit more than the minimum, and they like good, rich soil that is a bit alkaline.

Dear Internet Friend and Mentor Oliver Buckle,

I hope this message finds you firm and steady!
I am writting to you because I have found some life form feeding on my mint plant.

Do you have a solution?

 

[Chuck]

You have the beginning of an aphid infestation

 

[Oliver Buckle]

I do believe Chuck is right, I deal with them with a shaving brush and soap and water. The brush is not stiff enough to hurt the plants but is enough to damage the aphids, and the soapy water blocks up the holes they breath through, I realise shaving brushes are not modern equipment, don't try an electric razor!
A reasonably stiff paint brush would probably do the job.

 

[aafonsodias]

Hi Chuck!
Thank you for your help!
Damn Aphids...

Oliver, I will use a brush, soap, and water then. Do you recommend a ratio of water: soap?
I like your sense of humor Oliver! I might use an old toosh brush or a paint brush I have.

Cheers!!

 

[Oliver Buckle]

I just take a bar of soap and a mug of water and wet the brush then get soap on it to make a lather, just as though I was shaving. I think a tooth brush is too stiff.

 

[aafonsodias]

Hi Oliver, how are you doing?
I will look for a shaving brush then, or one painting brush, but it has less surface area.
Thank you, once again. Much appreciated! I'll do it only on the next weekend - my current time management... still need to work on that too...
I'm here struggling with my own battles and mortality issues. We're together in this pain man!
Big hug from Portugal. Your friend, A