If slugs are wreaking havoc in your garden, there’s a surprisingly simple trick that could send them packing – and it involves nothing more than a specific fruit. This natural, chemical-free method is easy, effective, and perfect for UK gardens battling with slimy pests.
Alys Fowler, gardening expert at The Guardian, recommends using empty grapefruit halves as slug traps. “I find empty grapefruit halves are good for catching slugs. Leave them on the ground, rind-side up, for a day or two. Once they have filled up, you can dispose of the slugs and chuck the rind in the bin,” she writes.
It’s a win-win – the grapefruit attracts the slugs away from your plants, and you can easily gather and remove them.
Here’s how it works: after enjoying your morning grapefruit, place the empty rind in your garden, cut-side down. The scent and damp interior make an irresistible shelter for slugs, especially overnight. By morning, you’ll find a congregation of them nestled inside, ready to be relocated or disposed of.
This method is not only effective but also sustainable. Instead of resorting to harsh chemicals or expensive deterrents, you’re repurposing kitchen waste to protect your plants. It’s safe for pets, pollinators, and the environment – and it can even help with composting. While citrus shouldn’t dominate your compost heap, small amounts like grapefruit halves are perfectly fine when balanced with other materials.
Whether you’re growing herbs, veg, or ornamentals, this trick is a must-try for any eco-conscious gardener. So next time you have a grapefruit, don’t toss the rind – turn it into a slug trap and take back control of your garden, naturally.