Gardeners' Question Time Phyllis Court: White Fly, River Thames and Favourite Gardens
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Oct 31, 2025 Join renowned pest specialist Pippa Greenwood, head gardener Matthew Pottage, and passionate plantswoman Christine Walkden as they tackle garden mysteries at Phyllis Court. They explore the surprising benefits of Thames floodwater for soil, the increase of pesky whitefly, and share their favorite gardens for inspiration. Local grower Johnny ‘Hot Stuff’ Mayard reveals secrets in cultivating chillies for his hot sauce empire, while the panel offers expert tips on planting and maintaining vibrant gardens all year round.
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Use Silt And Gypsum After Flooding
- After floods, wait for silt to settle and then reuse or brush it into beds to regain nutrients.
- Apply gypsum on heavy caked soils to improve crumb structure and prevent concrete-like setting.
Floods Can Improve Soil If They Don’t Stagnate
- Flooding can boost garden fertility by depositing oxygenated silt and nitrogen-rich material onto soils.
- Plants tolerate periodic fast-moving floods but suffer if waterlogging becomes stagnant and anaerobic.
Prevent Next Year's Whitefly By Clearing Greenhouses
- Expect more outdoor whitefly after hot, favourable summers because greenhouse species can breed outside.
- Remove greenhouse infestations and avoid letting them overwinter under glass to reduce next year's reservoir.