No matter how much effort you put into protecting your garden, one thing will always remain true; somehow pests will always find a way in. So then, what actually matters is how you get rid of them and whether that remedy is permanent or not. Snails and slugs are such pests that will often show up without warning. One morning everything is bright and lush and green in the garden, and the next morning, leaves will be eaten away, and plants will be turning brown. And you’ll be left scratching your head, unable to spot these devious, mischievous critters. However, if you do spot the above signs of snail and slug infestation, then the time to act is now!
Here are some natural and safe (for your garden, of course) ways to get rid of these pesky pests:
1. A Beer Trap:
That’s right, just like many people, slugs too are attracted to alcohol. But with them, it’s the smell of yeast that calls to them the most. So, take a small bucket or mug, bury it in the ground with only its mouth above ground. Then fill about just less than half of it with beer. Remove any obstacles around your trap and leave it overnight. Attracted and intoxicated by the smell, the slugs are sure to fall in and drown. Learn about types of insect pests in your garden.
2. A Sprinkle of Eggshells:
Slugs and snails have bodies that are incredibly soft and can’t take too many sharp objects. This is where the eggshells come in. Break them into small pieces and spread them around plants that are vulnerable. The pests will start avoiding them, unable to traverse over your eggshell trap. What more, the eggshells will also nourish the plant because they are an excellent source of calcium.
3. A Morning Cup of Joe:
…or in other words, coffee! Studies have shown that coffee is especially effective against snails and slugs. Using it is also very simple, and you have two options. First, you could simply sprinkle it around the plants that have been threatened by the pests. Or, second, take some chilled coffee and put it in a spray bottle. Then spritz the leaves, the steam, the soil and even the snail. In a jiffy, your snail problem will begin to disappear.
4. Ashes, ashes:
Char and burn a block of firewood or any piece of tree bark. Take the ashes and also the remaining cinders and use them as a barrier around your plants. These will act as a desiccant which can basically dry out a snail or a slug and eventually eradicate them. These repellents are also good for the soil and add nutrients to it.
5. Diatomaceous earth:
Finally, if push comes to shove, then you’ll need to use some Diatomaceous earth mixture. But be sure to get the food-grade version that is non-toxic. Diatomaceous earth is a powdered rock made from the fossils of tiny sea organisms. Its tiny particles have incredibly sharp edges that will be harmful to a snail’s body. But use it only in dry conditions as it loses its effectiveness in wet soil.
So, there you go! Five organic ways to get rid of slugs and snails and keep your garden lush and healthy. You may like to read about natural pest control methods. Good luck!
