Rhubarb munchers

[andyhol]

Picked the years first rhubarb today. Too my horror something got first taste. Does any one know what yomps rhubarb leaves but leaves the ribs? Am I looking for a giant caterpillar 'cause they weren't small leaves and there's not a lot left??

[Nicos]

Most likely slugs !

Ooopppps - hello and welcome to the Vine!!

[andyhol]

Thanks Nicos. Don't think it was slugs, no trails or any signs of the sticky little gits but will defo keep my eyes peeled now!

[Nicos]

Torchlight patrol tonight then???????

[Flummery]

Still, never mind - YOU don't eat the leaves - as long as the stalks were ok you still got a crop.

[rustylady]

Snails is my best bet - they tend not to leave as many sticky trails as slugs and they climb. Also, why is it that rhubarb leaves are poisonous to people, but slugs and snails munch happily and don't seem to suffer any ill effects? Anyway, as Flummery says at least you've still got the stalks - it'll save you having to dispose of the leaves (BTW, they can be put on the compost heap with no problems)

[Tam]

When I go out each night (will be out just now as it is just about dark) on my way to the brassica plot to slaughter the slugs, I always see to the ones on the rhubarb leaves in passing as there are always quite a few. Last night there were very few at the cabbages etc., but my broad beans were under siege. I think I may have just about got the little blighters under control now. Some creature must be eating their halved carcases as there is no sign of them first thing in the morning.

[Two_Sheds]

SLUGS!
I put a bucket over the top of my rhubarb for a couple of days, when I lifted it off it was full of slugs and baby snails.