WITH summer just around the corner, many green-fingered Brits have been working hard to prepare their outdoor space for the warmer season.
But unfortunately, sometimes all that hard work can be destroyed instantly by an unwanted guest – pesky slugs that chew through almost everything in sight.
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However, while there are several tricks to keep them away, such as using beer traps, in some cases it all has to do with the plants you’ve added to your garden.
Here to help is The Sun’s gardening expert and editor Veronica Lorraine, who has listed six popular plants that can cause a lot of headaches.
“The joy of gardening is ‘trying it out’ and seeing what happens – with half the fun of putting things in the ground,” said Veronica, who admitted she didn’t want to “discourage anyone from planting anything.” ”.
”What doesn’t work in other people’s external space may be brilliant in yours.
”But there are some plans that might be worth straying from if you’re just starting out and want to see some success.”
Hostas
With its delicate lilac flowers, Hosta – also known as Plantain Lillies – is a popular choice for many gardening enthusiasts.
But as impressive as this shade-tolerant plant is, Veronica noted that it’s a “surefire attack on slugs.”
”Hosta needs some serious protection from our nasty friends.
”One minute they’re glowing beautifully green in your garden – the next they’re ravaged by ravenous molluscs.”
Dahlias
Unfortunately, this is yet another favorite for hungry slugs and snails, the pro warned, “which is why you often don’t put them down until they really get going.”
”Otherwise you will be left crying over an expensive patch of green in your garden.
”They are also quite tricky in terms of overwintering, uprooting and digging up afterwards, so be sure to read up on how they grow best before trying them.”
Crocosmia
These multi-flowering perennials come in a variety of intense colors and are said to thrive in a variety of soil types, in sun or partial shade.
But while in theory this is the perfect addition to gardening, Veronica warned that this “tropical beauty” could easily become the garden’s main feature.
”Without serious bulb removal, it can take over your garden, so it’s worth keeping an eye on its spread.”
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Boxwood
”The days of knot gardens and Victorian planting schemes are over – Buxus cover across the UK is being completely decimated by caterpillars and moths.
”Start and avoid at all costs.”
5 Easy Ways to Stop Slugs from Wreaking Havoc in Your Garden
Pest control experts Green Protect have shared five easy, humane ways to stop backyard beasts from destroying your garden.
- Copper tape: “Copper tape deters pests by giving them a small electrostatic shock that doesn’t cause any serious or long-term damage, but is enough to stop them from attacking your plants.”
- barrier pellets: According to the gurus, the slimy enemies of the garden find it impossible to slide over these pellets, which stop them without harming them.
- Do not breed hostas: “If you find that your hosta plants are being eaten year after year, it may be time to move on to less susceptible plants, such as aquilegia or foxgloves.”
- Enlist your enemies: The pros added that if you bury a pint of beer near your plants, the slugs won’t be able to resist the aroma—and will end up drowning.
- Distract them with treats: Slugs are no different from us and they love a treat, especially if it’s an orange or cucumber peel. Simply spread them out, so the slugs are full when they notice your plants.
Hydrangea
Shrub hydrangeas are a popular choice for brightening borders with their delicate, long-lasting flowers in shades of pink, white or blue.
But despite their beauty, Veronica explained why hydrangeas are a no-no if you have a four-legged friend.
”They may look absolutely stunning, but if you have pets – avoid – they are toxic to dogs.”
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Bamboo
“Whatever you do, don’t plant this in the ground,” the expert advised.
”You will have angry neighbors knocking on your door demanding you remove it within months as it is so invasive.”
As noted by Veronica, bamboo is nearly impossible to control – so if you decide to plant it, make sure it’s in containers where the roots can’t burst, before burying the pots.
”There is still a risk, so unless you want to pull sprouts from the middle of your lawn – avoid.”
This story originally appeared on The-sun.com read the full story
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