Q&A – What is eating my laurel bushes and hostas?
Question:
Please tell me what's eating my laurel bushes and hostas. And more importantly, how to get rid of them.
Answer:
The laurels are not being eaten by an insect. The holes in the leaves are the result of shothole disease. This is caused by a fungus and bacteria which thrive in wet conditions. The best way to reduce it is to prune the plant, opening up the plant to allow air flow which will dry any water on the leaves. In summer as the amount of rain decreases you will see less of the disease.
The damage on the hostas is caused by slugs and snails. There are baits available to control them or you can lay down a board in your garden. The slugs and snails will hide under the board during the day. Lift the board up and collect and dispose of them.
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Please tell me what's eating my laurel bushes and hostas. And more importantly, how to get rid of them.
Answer:
The laurels are not being eaten by an insect. The holes in the leaves are the result of shothole disease. This is caused by a fungus and bacteria which thrive in wet conditions. The best way to reduce it is to prune the plant, opening up the plant to allow air flow which will dry any water on the leaves. In summer as the amount of rain decreases you will see less of the disease.
The damage on the hostas is caused by slugs and snails. There are baits available to control them or you can lay down a board in your garden. The slugs and snails will hide under the board during the day. Lift the board up and collect and dispose of them.
Related Videos:
Q&A - Why are my Otto Luyken laurels dying?
Hostas
Dividing Hostas
Related Resources:
Laurel Disease
Slugs and Snails - Flowers
February 27, 2021