Alan Titchmarsh has shared his top tip for protecting plants from slugs and snails, recommending the use of copper collars placed around hostas as shoots emerge. The 76-year-old gardener described hostas as a "five star hotel" for slugs on the Gardeners' World podcast, noting that the copper rings act as a deterrent.
According to Titchmarsh, slugs and snails "detest" crossing the copper rings, with some gardeners believing they receive a mild electric shock when sliding over the metal. He advised positioning the collars around hostas just as shoots begin to push through the soil, as damage at this stage can lead to multiple holes when leaves unfurl.
Grey field slugs, the most widespread species, are most active in April, May, September and October. Titchmarsh acknowledged that other methods such as sharp sand, grit, crushed eggshells, or sheep's wool are also used, but he finds copper collars most effective for individual specimens.
For those struggling with slugs, Titchmarsh suggested growing hostas in pots on pot feet to create a gap underneath, or choosing plants that pests avoid. He noted that plants with hairy or downy leaves, such as lamb's ear (Stachys byzantina) and most hardy geraniums, are rarely attacked by slugs and snails.
