Controlling Slugs Without Slug Pellets

Nematodes

This year for the first time I tried using slug nematodes to control my vast slug problem and population.

The process is quite complex but not difficult. It also takes a fair amount of time. I have copied the instructions from the packet. The application is done every six weeks. The results have been very good as far as the small slugs are concerned, but I still have too many large brown slugs.

Snails are not affected by this so need some other deterrent. I have heard good reports about copper wire. I’ll try some of that next year – watch this space!

Make homes for slug guzzlers!

Why not try making a home for toads and frogs who feast on slugs? Even a small Belfast sink will provide a home where there isn’t space for a pond. Providing places for frogs to overwinter is also helpful: a little hidey hole with a slab on top of sand is ideal. Birds and hedgehogs also devour slugs and snails, so nest boxes and hedgehog homes will make an impact!

Article by Magi Finlayson

NATURE CHAIN would love to hear from you so if you have a little story and some photos about your wildlife gardening, please send it in to thenaturechain@gmail.com