Slugs or snails

Slugs and snails can remove tender foliage quickly, especially in damp sheltered areas.

Isolate nowPossible cause—not a diagnosis. Compare the visible signs, plant identity, and growing conditions before treating.

Check one of my plants Browse another problem

Signs you may notice

irregular holes
ragged edges
slime trails
overnight damage

Safe first checks

Inspect after dark, beneath pots, and around nearby damp hiding places for animals or reflective slime trails.
Move the plant away from the collection.
Inspect both sides of leaves, stems, crevices, and the pot.
Photograph the signs before cleaning so you can compare changes.

Can look similar to

Overlapping symptoms are common. Compare these alternatives before choosing a treatment.

caterpillar feeding
mechanical damage
vine weevil

What to avoid

Do not apply several pesticides at once or treat before confirming that a living pest is present.

Record and follow up

Reinspect the isolated plant and nearby plants every few days. Record living pests, new damage, and treatment response before deciding the problem is resolved.

Seek qualified local help when damage is severe, rapidly spreading, or may involve a regulated pest or disease.