Gardening expert's warning over signs of pests invading your lawn and how to avoid them

Slugs are known for munching on plants (stock photo)

A gardening expert has issued a warning about the telltale signs of pests invading your lawn – and how to tackle them with some clever hacks.

As warmer weather approaches and you step into your garden, you might be met with an unpleasant surprise: pest invasion. From molehills to slug trails, leatherjackets, aphids and whiteflies, these pests can wreak havoc if left unchecked.

Chris McIlroy, an expert from The Grass People, has spoken about how to identify and deal with common garden pests, reports Devon Live. “Molehills are a clear indication of activity,” he said. “These mounds suggest moles tunnelling underground, damaging roots and blemishing lawns.”

Tunnels near the surface or shallow root systems may indicate the presence of voles or pocket gophers, which can cause significant damage, Mr McIlroy added. Slugs leave shiny trails and holes in leaves, swiftly damaging plants. “Keep a keen eye out for these slimy invaders,” he said.

Mr McIlroy also highlighted the threat posed by leatherjackets, the larvae of crane flies, to grassroots. “Be on the lookout for patches of dead grass, which may indicate an infestation,” he warned. Symptoms of aphids and whiteflies are more subtle, Mr McIlroy cautioned. “Distorted leaves, sticky honeydew residue, or black sooty mould are common signs,” he said. “These pests weaken plants and spread diseases.” To combat these pests, Mr McIlroy suggests several strategies.

Natural predators

“Encourage natural predators like birds, hedgehogs, and ground beetles to help control pest populations in your garden,” he said. “Install feeders and baths to attract birds and create habitats for hedgehogs with leaf piles or purpose-built shelters. Ground beetles are attracted to bare ground areas or bug hotels.”

Barriers and traps

“Create physical barriers such as copper tape or eggshells to deter slugs,” Mr McIlroy said. “Copper tape gives slugs a mild electric shock, while crushed eggshells create a rough surface. You can also use beer traps to lure and drown slugs; bury a container filled with beer in the soil.”

Biological control

“Consider using nematodes to target leatherjackets in your lawn,” he said. “These microscopic worms parasitise and kill leatherjacket larvae. Apply them in late summer or early autumn when leatherjacket larvae are active using a watering can or sprayer.”

Regular maintenance

“Maintain good garden hygiene by removing debris and weeds,” Mr McIlroy said. “Regularly inspect plants for pest damage and prune overgrown vegetation to reduce moisture and create less hospitable conditions for pests.”

Stay vigilant

“Don’t wait until the problem escalates,” Mr McIlroy warned. “Addressing pest issues early on can save you time, money, and frustration in the long run.”