Garden Weevils – these hard-bodied insects are very destructive, and both the adult and larvae can cause destruction. They are easily recognisable by a long snout and antennae. The larvae eat the roots of vegies and the adults eat leaves in a very irregular pattern, causing a tattered look to the leaves. Sticky traps and a barrier of diatomaceous earth will slow them down. Plucking them off the plants and feeding to the chooks the next morning, gives great stress relief.

Cutworms are most destructive to newly planted seedlings. While the moth is not damaging the larvae live underneath the soil surface during the day and emerge at night, cutting the small seedlings off at ground level and then trying to pull them into their hiding hole. Barriers of aluminium foil or carboard toilet roll holders will protect the seedlings until they are strong enough to not be affected by the caterpillar.Slugs and snails are easily identified by their silver trail they leave behind. Its never ceases to amaze how quickly a seemingly harmless mollusc can be. Their favourite hiding spot during the day is under mulch and leaf litter. At night they turn in to a ferocious munching machine, making short work of newly planted seedlings. Copper tape barriers and beer bait traps are some of the most effective nonchemical controls.

Slugs and snails are easily identified by their silver trail they leave behind. Its never ceases to amaze how quickly a seemingly harmless mollusc can be. Their favourite hiding spot during the day is under mulch and leaf litter. At night they turn in to a ferocious munching machine, making short work of newly planted seedlings. Copper tape barriers and beer bait traps are some of the most effective nonchemical controls.

Armyworm larvae have a taste for tender seedlings, feeding at night there are many different species that come under the Armyworm banner. They get their common name because usually if you spot one there’s an army of larvae not far behind. A quick tour around the garden at night and inspecting the small seedlings will reveal what is causing the damage and removing them is one of the most effective, least toxic (and satisfying) controls there is.