Tomato plants are just growing into seedlings in May and need plenty of water, which makes it especially important to protect them from slugs. Slugs thrive in damp environments and will be attracted to the soft tender foliage on tomatoes at this time of year as it is easier for them to eat.
If slugs munch tomatoes at this crucial time in their growth they can completely destroy the seedling and, even if it survives, it is likely to be stunted and not grow as much fruit. However, Dee Sewell, a garden designer and founder of Greenside Up has shared a very easy and natural way to keep these pests away from your garden crops.
Dee said: “Slugs don’t like the smell so you could try crushing a clove and adding it to the watering can, sprinkling the mixture over areas worst affected to prevent them nibbling.”
Slugs hate garlic as it contains a compound called allicin, which irritates slugs if they touch it and makes it very difficult for them to move about freely.
Garlic also has a very strong sharp smell which slugs hate as it can be a sensory overload and will make tomato foliage less appetising to them.
It can also sometimes dry slugs out, which will also keep them far away as they need moisture to survive.
How to use garlic to keep slugs away from tomatoes
All you need to do is chop up a few large garlic cloves and then boil them in water for 10 minutes.
After the cooking time is up, place the garlic and water in a bowl to cool completely.
Once the water is cold, strain out the garlic using a colander and then place it in an empty spray bottle or watering can.
If you wish, you can also add a drop of washing up liquid to the garlic water as it will help the solution stick to the plant. However, one use a tiny amount as too much can harm your plants.
Spray the garlic water in the soil around the base of your tomato plants and also add some to the lower leaves.
It is best to water your tomato plant in the morning with the solution to let the soil dry out during the day as slugs are more attracted to a wet environment.
Dee said; “Slugs prefer dark, damp conditions so if they are a problem in your garden or polytunnel, avoid watering in the evenings.”
Your tomatoes should stay healthy and uncontaminated by pesky slugs, so you can look forward to harvesting big juicy fruit once summer arrives.
