GETTING RID OF SLUGS

How to stop these garden menaces having the slime of their life

With an estimated 20,000 slugs in the average British garden, you’re never going to be rid of them entirely. But, to lessen the problem, these ideas will help you slug it out. Focus your energy on the plants that you really care about. Then try:

Deterrents Slugs dislike garlic, chives, mint and rosemary so plant those.

Coffee Spray your plant with cold instant coffee (use with caution, as can negatively affect some plants).

Garlic Crush two garlic bulbs in 1 litre of water and boil. After letting cool, add a tablespoon to 4.5 litres water and apply to plants.

Nematode potion These microscopic parasitic worms kill slugs. Available commercially, or make your own by gathering 10–20 slugs in a bucket with an inch of water and a handful of leaves. Cover. Stir regularly over the course of a fortnight. Sieve and water around your chosen plants. Repeat after about 5–6 weeks.