Gardening expert shares tips on how to stop pests damaging your plants

Horticulture expert Calum Maddock from HomeHow.co.uk has shared his advice for keeping pests away from your plants. Watering and cramming your plants together in limited space could be contributing to your plants’ poor health by attracting pests. Pests including aphids, slugs and ear wigs can cause serious damage to your plants if left untreated.

Watering your plants in the morning means they will be fully hydrated when the afternoon comes around.

Temperatures in the afternoon tend to be higher so making sure they’re well watered means they’re less likely to wilt.

Watering in the morning will protect your plants from pests who like distressed plants.

If you water your plants in the early morning, it will also ensure your plants have time to dry.

Insects like slugs can be picked off by hand.

Some pests can be beneficial to plants, so you don’t necessarily need to remove them.

Hoverflies, lady birds, bees, butterflies and moths should all be encouraged.

Pollinator and predator insects can help manage pests and help maintain a healthy garden.