Gardeners are being urged to use natural deterrents to keep slugs away this summer, as rising temperatures and wetter weather create ideal conditions for these pests. Experts have shared their top natural methods, which are effective and often already available at home.
Copper Tape: A Reliable Barrier
Ryan Kaila at Kingfisher Direct recommends copper tape for protecting bin stores and planters. He explains: "Slugs love damp, sheltered spaces, and in summer they can often be found around food waste bins, compost bins and recycling areas." The tape creates a complete barrier; when slugs contact it, a reaction with their slime deters them. Mosh Latifi of EcoCare Pest Management agrees: "Copper tape is the most reliable and long-lasting natural slug deterrent... It costs a few pounds from any garden centre and does the job quietly and reliably."
Eggshells: A Simple Kitchen Waste Solution
Martin Chaplin, Head of Horticulture at Hedges Direct, recommends crushed eggshells. He says: "The rough, sharp texture creates a barrier that slugs are often reluctant to cross." Allow eggshells to dry completely, crush them into coarse pieces, and scatter around plant bases. Top up after heavy rain.
Sheep Wool: A Natural Physical Barrier
James Copley, CEO of Copley Pest Solutions, suggests using sheep wool. "Slugs rely on smooth, moist surfaces to move, and sheep wool will disrupt their ability to move freely," he says. Wool pellets or raw wool can be placed in a thick ring around plants. The wool absorbs moisture, making the area less inviting.
Coffee Grounds: Aromatic Deterrent
Chris Bonnett of GardeningExpress.co.uk recommends coffee grounds. "Sprinkling coffee grounds around your plant is an effective way to deter slugs and snails as they don't like the strong aroma and the texture is also unpleasant for them to crawl over," he notes. Coffee grounds also enrich the soil as they decompose.
These natural methods avoid harsh chemicals, protecting other wildlife and plants while keeping slugs at bay throughout the summer.
