Are these pests harmful to my pets?

Most common slug baits are toxic to pets, so always choose pet safe options. Handpicking is the safest method for your animals.

Will my plant recover from slug damage?

Yes, the plant will continue to grow new leaves once the pests are removed. Just ensure it stays well watered to support recovery.

Starry false lily of the valley: pests, causes and fixes

Check these first

Look for slimy trails on the leaves.
Inspect the underside of the leaves during the evening.
Check the soil surface for hiding pests.

Likely causes

Slugs
Most likely
How to tell: You see slimy trails on the leaves or soil and ragged holes in the foliage. They are most active at night or during wet weather.
What to do: Handpick slugs off the plant in the evening when they are active. You can also set out shallow dishes of beer or use copper tape around the base of the plant to deter them.
Snails
Possible
How to tell: Similar damage to slugs but you might find the shells nearby. They leave behind the same telltale slime trails.
What to do: Remove any debris or mulch near the base of the plant where snails like to hide. Use organic iron phosphate baits if the infestation is severe.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your starry false lily of the valley

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

A few small holes are usually not a threat to the plant's health. Worry if the entire plant is being defoliated or if the stems are being eaten.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the area around your plants clean of dead leaves and debris to remove hiding spots for slugs and snails.

Starry false lily of the valley: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your starry false lily of the valley and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Are these pests harmful to my pets?: Most common slug baits are toxic to pets, so always choose pet safe options. Handpicking is the safest method for your animals.
Will my plant recover from slug damage?: Yes, the plant will continue to grow new leaves once the pests are removed. Just ensure it stays well watered to support recovery.

Guides to these causes

Slugs and Snails

Why are there holes in my Starry false lily of the valley leaves?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your starry false lily of the valley?