Slugs love delphiniums and hosta plants. A circle of sharp grit around new shoots in early spring will prevent slugs from doing their worst without doing harm to the environment.

Potted plants such as hostas can be kept safe from slugs by placing the pots in an oversized saucer which has to be kept filled with water. Slugs cannot swim and therefore stay away from the plant in the pot.

To extend the vase-life of your gladioli, you must as soon as the first 2 - 3 buds have opened, water the plant a couple of hours before you cut the stem.