Placing cucumber slices around garden beds can lure slugs and snails away from plants, according to Barrie Quinn, founder of Portnoo Market Garden, a chemical-free farm. He shared the method on Instagram, describing it as "simple" yet "super effective" and something he wished he had tried earlier.
The cucumber method explained
In his video, Quinn shows the lettuce bed he is trying to protect from slugs. He explains that he has positioned chunks of cucumber around the edges because "slugs love cucumber" and "they're attracted more to it than the lettuce."
He recommends using cucumbers that are past their prime rather than fresh ones. According to Quinn, the slugs "will gather all in one place, and all you've got to do is relocate them away from the plants they're eating. Super effective. Non-chemical. Perfect."
How it works and relocation tips
The method works similarly to companion planting or using trap plants: the cucumber slice acts as an enticing lure, attracting slugs and snails with its aroma and moisture content. While it does not eliminate the pests entirely, it can help manage their population.
When moving slugs and snails, it is recommended to transport them at least 20 to 30 feet away, preferably further. For best results, move them 50 feet or beyond, or to a completely different location, to reduce the chance they will find their way back to the garden.
