Question
Something is eating holes in the leaves of my phlox. What could it be and how can I stop it?

Answer
Gina, your problem is most likey slugs.  They are very prevalent this time of year.

I have tried everything including beer traps, diatomaceous earth, homemade traps, and copper. I must admit that I've had moderate success with the beer, but it would evaporate each day and got expensive to maintain.

I am happy to say that I've finally discovered an effective deterrent.  It is a product sold by a company named Gardens Alive, and is called Escar-Go.  Although it is a pesticide, it is organic, and is therefore non-toxic to humans and pets.  It also stays active and solid even after a heavy rain.  Just sprinkle small amounts around each plant, and reapply every 10 days.  In case you're interested, click on the attached website and search for Escar-Go.

http://www.gardens-alive.com

If the area is large, making this product impractical, try spraying the soil with an ammonia solution.  Mix one tbs. lemon ammonia and one tbs. of non-concentrated dishwashing liquid per gallon of water. You'll need to apply this solution twice per week, and preferable in the early morning
hours when slugs are most active.

I hope this helps.  Good luck, and have a great weekend.

Regards,

Mike.