How do I protect dahlias from slugs?Updated 14 days ago

Slug controls

There are various methods that gardeners use for protecting dahlias from slugs and snails:

- Start dahlia tubers in small temporary pots on a raised surface, this will allow dahlias to develop healthy growth and won't attract the attention of slugs. Avoid transferring the dahlias to the border until they are around 30cm tall and can withstand some slug damage. 

- Remove the lowest leaves from the dahlia stem, any leaves which are resting on the ground will attract and become a hiding place for slugs.

- Trap slugs by laying a wet plank of wood on the ground close to your dahlias, they will naturally hide under this during the day and you can then pick them off and dispose of them.

- Beer traps are thought to be effective - this involves submerging a container which is partly filled with beer into the ground close to your plants, the slugs will fall into the container.

- Go out at night when slugs are most active and pick the slugs off your plants. You can then release them elsewhere.

- Try Nematodes, these microscopic worms are a biological control which exist naturally in the soil. You can water Nematodes into the soil to top up the existing numbers and these will help to control slug populations. 

- You can fix copper tape around dahlias growing in pots. 

- Apply crushed seashells or eggshells around your plants, wool pellets or used coffee grounds. Slugs do not like to cross gritty/dusty or sharp surfaces and this should deter them away from your dahlias.