clear any fallen leaves into the bin so it goes to the council composters, they will get hot enough to kill any spores. This is better than your own compost heaps. I must admit I tend not to do anything about it in my garden.

Mildew is usually caused by dryness at the roots. It was very dry earlier in the year so not surprising. Another common cause is poor air circulation, caused by overcrowding. I would just keep the plants well watered this usually sorts the problem out, without having to resort to chemical treatments.

Mildew's always about - powdery mildew when its hot and dry, and another form when its wet or damp. Try the milk treatment - 1 part milk to 9 parts water in a sprayer, if you don't want to keep spraying chemicals.