Other Pests

Perennials

Class 1: Some Perennials Basics
Class 2: Garden Design
Class 3: Putting Pencil to Paper
Class 4: Soil Preparation and Planting
Class 5: Maintaining your Perennial Gardens
Class 6: Troubleshooting

Snails and Slugs
Snails and slugs are common pests in many regions. These creatures prefer a cool, moist environment, so early morning is a good time to hunt for them. Both pests cause large, ragged holes in leaves, and can quickly do a great deal of damage. Hand-picking and trapping are the most common methods of control. Iron-phosphate-based baits are effective, and are safer than highly toxic metaldehyde-based baits. Do not use metaldehyde baits where pets or children could find them!

Small Mammals
Small mammals, such as moles, voles, gophers, woodchucks, porcupines, and squirrels can all cause headaches in perennial gardens. It can be difficult to catch these critters in action, so you may need to search for clues. Look for tracks on the soil surface and note size and shape of any holes and tunnels you find. Note what part of the plant is affected. Roots? New shoots? Have plants been dug up? Once you’ve identified the culprit, consult a reference on the best control methods. Unfortunately, these pests can be difficult to control once they’ve found a place to their liking.

Deer
In many parts of the country, deer do more damage to perennial gardens than any other pest. In times of scarcity they’ll feed on almost anything in the garden. And they’ll come surprisingly close to houses in their search for food. Sure signs of their presence are their distinctive, two-toed hoof prints and dark, pellet-like droppings. Deer are incredibly agile, and can clear an 8-foot fence. So you’ll may need to use a combination of deterrents, scare tactics, and fencing to keep them at bay.

Hopefully, you won’t be faced with all of these pests, or at least not all at the same time! The most important thing to remember is that it’s critical that you take the time to identify the cause of the problem before you take any control measures.

We hope you enjoyed your time with us, and that what you’ve learned will bring you more enjoyment and success in your perennial gardens.

We welcome your comments about the course, as well as suggestions for future course offerings. Send comments to [email protected]. Please include the name of the course and whether you purchased the course or took it as a benefit of NGA membership. Thanks for joining us!

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Slugs do most of their damage at night.

This gray squirrel enjoy a discarded ice cream cone at a park.

The only thing that will stop a hungry deer from grazing in your garden are double rows of 8-foot-tall fencing. However, a combination of scare tactics and other deterrents may provide adequate protection for your plants.