How to Control Slugs and Snails Organically

Slugs and snails can be a real nuisance in your garden, destroying your plants and ruining your hard work. While there are many chemical solutions available, using organic methods is a safer and more environmentally-friendly option. Here are some effective ways to control slugs and snails organically.

1. Create Barriers

One way to keep slugs and snails away from your plants is to create physical barriers that they cannot cross. You can do this by placing copper tape around the base of your plant pot, or by creating a barrier of sharp sand or crushed eggshells. Another option is to place a collar made of fine mesh around the base of each plant. This will prevent slugs and snails from climbing up the stem and reaching the leaves.

A slug on copper tape

2. Use Natural Predators

You can also introduce natural predators into your garden to help control slug and snail populations. One example is the ground beetle, which feeds on slugs and snails. You can attract ground beetles to your garden by providing them with a suitable habitat, such as a pile of leaves or a log pile. Birds, frogs, and hedgehogs are also natural predators of slugs and snails.

A bird eating a snail

3. Use Natural Deterrents

There are several natural substances that can deter slugs and snails from your plants. One popular option is diatomaceous earth, which is made from the fossilized remains of tiny aquatic organisms. When slugs and snails come into contact with diatomaceous earth, it dries out their body and kills them. Another option is to sprinkle coffee grounds around your plants, as caffeine is toxic to slugs and snails.

Diatomaceous earth powder

4. Handpick Them

If you only have a small number of slugs and snails in your garden, you can try handpicking them off your plants. This method can be time-consuming, but it is an effective way to control their population. You can either pick them off by hand or use a pair of tweezers to remove them. Be sure to dispose of them in a bin, as they can quickly escape and return to your garden.

Handpicking slugs off a plant

5. Maintain a Clean Garden

Slugs and snails are attracted to damp and dark environments, so by keeping your garden clean and tidy, you can reduce their population. Remove any debris, such as fallen leaves and dead plants, as these provide an ideal hiding spot for slugs and snails. You should also regularly weed your garden to prevent weeds from providing a home for slugs and snails.

A tidy garden

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