As we are moving into warmer days, these creatures are sliding out of their little caves and are on a mission to devour as much of your pristine-looking brassicas as they possibly can. It’s hard to keep foul language at bay when thinking about these slimy, little gastropods. Do we dare say this month’s pest is one of the most mischievous there is?
Causing havoc in gardens around the world, slugs are a serious problem for many gardeners out there, especially for new growth and seedlings. Slugs are most often active at night, and the worst damage is often done when the weather is hot and humid. You can spot their presence easily from their shiny trails left on the plants and hard surfaces, and their irregular nibble on your plants.
As food growers and gardeners, we probably all have our own method of control, tried, and tested over years. Here are some of our best tips:
- Nematodes – a biological control that is watered onto the soil. The nematodes will kill the slugs by entering their bodies and infecting them with bacteria (we use this frequently to keep slugs away from our brassica seedlings).
- Slug hunt – grab your torch and head our one warm evening for some good old-fashioned slug picking. You can re-locate to the compost heat, or… you know…. Before ending up IN the compost heap.
- Encourage wildlife to hang out in your garden! Toads, frogs, hedgehogs, and birds enjoy a slug or two for tea, so ensure your garden is a welcoming space for all these friendly feasters.
When you’re about to give up…
Whilst we grow all of our vegetable plugs and our garden according to organic principles, and avoid any use of pesticides or toxic chemicals, we do understand the frustration many experiences when their entire crop is demolished by slugs.
Organic slug pellets seem like the best option if nothing else helps. Many manufacturers of organic pellets claim they are not harmful to wildlife or pets. And there is new research suggesting organic pellets are just as efficient as synthetic ones.
Let us know your top tips to keep slugs away!
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