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Slugs can cause serious damage in the garden, often overnight, chewing through leaves and leaving behind slimy trails. While chemical solutions are available, many gardeners prefer safer, more natural methods to tackle the problem.
Thankfully, there are plenty of eco-friendly options that are safe for your soil, pets, and the environment. You don’t need harsh treatments to protect your plants. Some of these methods might seem a bit unconventional, but they’ve been tried and tested—and they work.
Sprinkle Salt
Salt is a classic method to kill slugs on contact. However, it’s best used sparingly and directly on slugs, as too much salt can harm your soil and plants.
Companion Planting
Some plants repel slugs naturally. Plants like
Apply Cayenne Pepper
Sprinkling cayenne pepper around the base of your plants can repel slugs. Be careful not to let the pepper come into contact with the plants, and try to reapply after rainfall.
Set Out Cucumber Slices
Slices of
Spread Diatomaceous Earth (DE)
Diatomaceous earth is a natural, abrasive powder that damages the slug’s body. It’s effective when dry and safe for pets and humans, but loses effectiveness in wet conditions.
Use Slug Bait or Slug Begone
Commercial slug baits, such as Slug Begone, can be effective for large infestations. Always follow product directions and safety guidelines.
Use a Dish of Beer
Slugs are attracted to the smell of beer. Set a shallow dish in your garden and fill it with beer. The slugs will crawl in and drown. The results may vary based on the slug population and weather conditions.
Crushed Eggshells
Finely crushed eggshells can act as a rough barrier, discouraging slugs from crossing. For the best results, the shells should be ground into small, sharp pieces.
Avoid Wooden Raised Beds
Slugs often hide in the damp crevices of wooden raised beds. If you’re experiencing repeated issues, consider switching to a metal or plastic bed or removing the bed entirely.
Related: 8 Best Raised Garden Beds (What to Consider Before Buying)
Keep Chickens
Chickens love to eat slugs. If you keep backyard poultry, allowing them to roam your garden occasionally can help reduce the slug population.
Raising Chickens 101: What You Need to Raise Chickens
Try Sluggo (Slug Bait)
Sluggo is a popular commercial bait that kills slugs without harming plants or other organisms. It’s effective but should be used with caution around pets and children, as ingestion can be harmful.
Lay Down Copper Tape or Wire
Some gardeners use copper barriers around the base of their plants to deter pests. When slugs come into contact with the copper, it’s believed they receive a mild electric-like sensation that deters them from crossing it.
Epsom Salt
Epsom salt can deter slugs while also benefiting your plants with magnesium. Like regular salt, it should be used mindfully and in moderation.
How to Defeat Japanese Beetles in Your Garden
If Japanese beetles are causing problems in your garden, consider trying one of these natural methods to eliminate them.
How to Defeat Japanese Beetles in Your Garden
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If you want to brighten your garden, consider these 32 colorful varieties that will thrive and bring life to your outdoor area year after year.
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