Slugs in the garden mean raggedy, nibbled on leaves. These snails without a shell enjoy the humidity of a garden environment. There are several ways to help reduce the slug population in your garden. This is a guide about getting rid of slugs.
My father once told me of collecting and drying egg shells for the garden. When they are dry you crush them up and spread the pieces at the base of your plants. Slugs and snails won't crawl over the shards.
By Suntydt from Tazewell, TN
Does anyone know how to make an effective, liquid slug repellent/killer?
Hardiness Zone: 8a
By Karen from OR
I have read that you can put beer in a pie pan and set it out. They seem to love it and crawl in and can't get out; "wonder why"? haha. You can also crush discarded egg shells and throw this around your garden and plants. I personally have done this for years and have not had a slug problem.
Does anyone have a good way to get rid of slugs? I've tried beer, yeast, and all kinds of store bought products. Someone said Sluggo works, but I haven't seen it in any store I've been in. Any suggestions would be welcome.
By Holly from Lancaster, WI
They don't like prickly, sharp surfaces so the broken eggshells is a good idea or any broken bits and pieces (like broken sea shells) placed around the plants they seem to favor. The eggshells will eventually decompose and help fertilize the soil.
I'm surprised the beer hasn't worked for you. I heard the best method is to put the beer in a pan and set it into the ground. If they don't overdose, they will probably drown. You do have to refresh it every few days.
I have heard that the copper works as well. I guess they get some sort of shock when they cross it ... kind of like a little electric fence. But copper is pretty expensive right now.
You can also lay a board down in the garden and they will go under it during the day. When you lift it up during the day, they will be hiding underneath and you can exterminate them by your method of choice (like sprinkling salt on them).
I have also heard that they have an aversion to caffeine and that putting coffee grounds around your plants will not only deter them because of the prickly service but the caffeine will also keep them back. The grounds will also decompose and add nutrients to the soil.
Good luck!
Natural remedies for slug prevention suggested by our ThriftyFun community. Post your own tips here.
I need to get rid of slugs that are taking over my back yard. Please help. What are my options? I do have pets, so I do need safe products.