How to prevent pests from eating salvias, perennials and ornamentals?

jhb

Hi 

I have had these holes appearing in my salvia leaves (pictured), geraniums, and other perennials. Just on the leaves. Some have a skeleton and then become fully eaten.

Is it a fly or caterpillar/slug? I see lots of little flying things fly around when I’m watering.

I was going to try the Yates Baythroid spray but would like to know what they are/what treatment is best. 
thanks

MitchellMc

Hi @jhb,

That damage would be consistent with caterpillars or slugs. The Baythroid would be suitable for caterpillars, or you could use Dipel. The chew marks are not quite as semi-circular as what I would normally expect to see from a caterpillar, so I suggest you treat from slugs, too. I recommend using Eco-Organic Garden 600g Eco-Shield Organic Snail & Slug Killer.

Here's a helpful guide: Protect your garden from snails, slugs and leaf eaters.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell