Three Natural Methods to Prevent Slugs in the Garden

Slugs and snails can be very damaging to garden plants, especially edible leafy greens. The damage can range from unsightly tears and holes to total destruction of the plant. While slugs can have an impact on all types of plants, shrubs, and flowers, it is particularly important to use natural slug deterrent methods on edible plants. Chemical sprays that are used to repel slugs can be toxic to both humans and wild animals, so think carefully before you decide to apply a chemical slug spray.

There are three primary methods for getting rid of slugs naturally. You can either choose the method that works best for you, or use a combination of methods to keep slugs at bay.

1. Habitat Modification- Slugs require a dark, moist area to live so if you can eliminate these areas around your garden, slugs and snails will be less likely to gather there. Do not use mulch with large pieces that can create slug havens. Avoid watering in the evening so you do not create the excess moisture that slugs love. Raised garden beds are less appealing to slugs and planting sacrificial plants around the garden beds can prevent them from targeting the edible plants you intend to harvest. You can also place seaweed around the edge of the garden to keep slugs away; they don't like the salt.

2. Natural Slug Baits- Similar to sacrificial plants, you can use natural slug baits to attract them away from your garden. You can either purchase slug baits that are scented to attract them, or use a DIY solution like beer or grapefruit. Beer in a shallow dish will attracts slugs and trap or drown them. An upturned grapefruit half will also attract them and create a safe haven where you can collect and remove them in the morning.

3. Copper Slug Repellent- If slugs and snails do make it to your garden, you can keep them off plants by applying a copper slug shield. Copper delivers a small electric charge when it comes into contact with slugs, so they will not cross a copper barrier. Copper is also nontoxic. If you apply a physical shield, rather than a spray, you only have to do it one time. Although copper sprays are effective, they need to be re-applied periodically and after rainfall. Look for a coiled copper shield that expands with plant growth. Copper tape is also effective, but it does not expand and can damage plants that grow rapidly

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