Slugs can be a particular issue for gardeners this time of year as there’s plenty of plants and growth for them to eat. They often target the leaves of plants, ripening fruits and vegetables, and decaying matter.
A gardening expert has revealed one unusual drink which can help get rid of the pesky slugs from your garden for good. Spencer Campbell, who manages the Plant Clinic, said he has become frustrated, like many other gardeners, to find his tomatoes and lettuce “nibbled or stripped down” by pests. He said pests such as slugs can reduce harvests and cost gardeners money to deter.
Spencer said the best way to get ride of slugs is by using beer. He recommends putting a jar or shallow dish of beer near your plants to ensure the pests “die in a watery grave”.
The method works as slugs are attracted to the yeasty smell of beer. This leads them into the trap where they may die from the alcohol or drown.
Experts from Better Homes and Gardens explained: “The yeasty, malty aroma of the beer is what attracts slugs, not the actual alcohol. How can slugs smell without a nose?
“Slugs have two pairs of feelers. The top or larger pair carry their eyes, while the smaller pair are home to scenting organs.
“Slugs will smell the beer and crawl to the trap, over the edge, and in to feed on the beer. They may either drown or die of alcohol poisoning.”
Spencer added that limiting constantly damp and shady areas in your garden can also help. Meanwhile, some gardeners may opt to simply remove slugs using their hands.
Slugs thrive in shady, cool and moist areas. However, they’re less bothered about plants that grow in the sunshine.
Gardeners can often spot them under leaves or in damp areas in the morning. Spencer recommends looking out for their visible trail in order to track them down.