Is one of your plants rotting or infected with pests or disease? Remove the remains of old, rotting or infected plants promptly. Dig up and destroy any plants with virus symptoms so that the problem does not spread to other plants. Keep on top of weed control, particularly near the vegetable plot, because weeds often act as a host for pests.
Once plant tissues start to rot, secondary problems with fungi and bacteria can take hold. Careful planting and watering can prevent rotting. For example, certain large seeds and some tubers are best planted on their side. Some alpines can be protected from rot with a collar of fine gravel, which allows water to drain away quickly.
Plants growing too close together compete for light, water and nutrients and cannot grow to their potential. Overcrowding also prevents good air circulation, allowing fungal diseases to take hold. Overcrowded plants are difficult to inspect and care for, so problems can become serious before they are noticed.
Cuts on plant tissue can provide an entry point for pests and diseases. Take care not to damage plants when hoeing, mowing or using a nylon-line trimmer. Use sharp tools when pruning and make clean cuts just above a bud to prevent die-back. Make sure that ties on trees and climbers are secure but do not cut into the plants.
In the warm conditions inside a greenhouse, young plants are particularly at risk of attack by pests and diseases. Raise seeds, young plants and cuttings in clean pots. Use fresh compost and tap water rather than water collected in a water butt because many problems are spread by infected water. While plants growing in the ground or in containers can be watered from stored water in butts, it is important that the butt be kept covered and that it is cleaned out once a year.
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Grow seedlings in clean pots to protect their young health.
