Why are slugs and snails eating my Autumn Crocus?

Check these first

1. Inspect the undersides of leaves for slugs during the evening.
2. Look for shiny slime trails on the soil around the bulbs.
3. Check if the soil is staying too wet for too long.

Likely causes

1. Slug and snail infestation

   Most likely

   How to tell: You will see irregular holes in the leaves or petals and slimy trails on the soil surface. They often feed at night, leaving the plant looking ragged by morning.

   What to do: Handpick the pests in the evening when they are active. You can also place copper tape around the planting area or use iron phosphate bait pellets according to the package instructions.

2. Excessive moisture

   Possible

   How to tell: Damp, soggy soil creates the perfect humid environment for slugs to thrive. If your soil stays wet for days, it attracts more pests.

   What to do: Improve drainage by adding grit or sand to the soil. Water only when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

When to worry

Worry if the flowers are being eaten before they can fully open. Minor leaf damage is usually not fatal to the bulb.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the area around your bulbs clear of debris and mulch where slugs like to hide during the day.

Questions people ask

Will my plant recover if the leaves are eaten?

Yes, as long as the bulb remains healthy, the plant will grow back next season. Focus on protecting the new growth.

Are beer traps effective?

They can work, but they often attract more slugs from neighboring areas. Handpicking is usually more effective for small garden beds.

More problems with Autumn Crocus

• Why is my Autumn Crocus bulb rotting?
• Why is my Autumn Crocus not blooming?