What’s been eating my hydrangea?

[ToastonEggs]

I’ve planted this hydrangea about 2 weeks ago, along side two other ones. But this one seems to be the only one being eaten by something? It looks like there’s slime trails on it and I know I’ve got lots of slugs atm, but I thought slugs don’t like hydrangeas (hence buying them) and I’ve been diligent with all natural slug spray after watering as well.

What do you think has been chomping on my hydrangeas and what can I do about this?

Almost certainly slugs - go out at night to check if you want to confirm. While not usually a target for slugs, young plants will still fall victim. A collar, beer traps, slug pellets (wouldn’t normally use, but this year I am holding nothing back!) might all help defend it until it is more established and less attractive.

Thank you, I’ll look at getting a copper collar. Thanks

Slugs were eating mine, I've been crushing eggshells and scattering them around the plant, it seems to be working.

Go out at night with a torch and see what you can find.

Badgers.

Those bastards are voracious. 😉

Slugs. Ours are getting eaten too.