What ails my oleander?

Anne Swithinbank’s masterclass on: underperforming oleander

- Anne Swithinbank

Q A couple of years ago, I bought an oleander described as a hardy shrub. My garden is not particularly cold and I planted it in a sheltered spot, but it has not grown much. Although buds have formed, they struggle to open. What went wrong, and can I improve things? Jennifer Kirkpatrick, Salisbury, Wilts.

A Enjoying a touch of the Med is a lovely idea and oleander is a firm favourite. Widely planted around the roadsides and hotels of warmer countries, the profuse white, pink or red flowers and evergreen foliage are a familiar and easily recognisable sight. Basking in hot weather and sunshine, plants can make large shrubs 20ft (6m) tall, capable of flowering all year round. Just take care when planting and handling oleanders, as all parts of the plant are poisonous.