- Nematodes are microscopic worm-like creatures that occur naturally in your soil. When using as a slug killer we are really just boosting the nematode population within the treated area. This has the effect of killing the young slugs therefore keeping them away from our precious seedlings. It is very important to know that the extra nematodes we have added will naturally die off when their food source is depleated. THEREFORE WHEN THERE ARE NO MORE SLUGS TO EAT THE NEMATODE LEVEL WILL NATURALLY RETURN TO NORMAL. This method of slug killing is totally organic, so it is safe to use around organic plants, pets, children and wildlife (apart from slugs) - no more poisonous slug pellets! Also remember that to be really effective a majority of slug pellets need to be re-applied in damp weather unlike nematodes that love the wet!
To buy your slug killer CLICK HERE
- Sow flowers that are detested by slugs and snails. This method will deter them from your plot without the use of any chemicals or pellets at all. We have flowers that are pre-sown on strips that will deter the little pests. You simply lay the strip of seeds around your plot.
For More Information & To Order Click Here
- The soft slimy bodies of the slugs do not like hard and prickly barriers. Why not mix a little sharp sand, grit, eggshells, sawdust, chopped thistles etc. into your soil or just use a little as a barrier around your planted area? Another good idea is bran it takes the moisture away from the slug's body and kills it. Many of these organic barrier methods can benefit the soil when they are dug in as they will act as a conditioner however one to remember is not to use eggshells on very alkaline soil as they will add calcium.
- Try strips of aluminium foil. These can be made into simple collars to place around the young stems of seedlings. The metalic content of these strips is not something that is enjoyed by the slugs and snails therefore act very well as a deterrent. Commercially bought collars also have the same effect but obviously cost quite a bit more.
- Don't mulch around susceptible plants. We all know that slugs love damp and dark areas so keep areas close to your vegetable plots free of mulch.
- Following on from the mulching, any type of ground cover is an ideal home for the slugs. We know it can be very dull but weeding has to be done not just in your plot but around your plot as well. Also try to keep ground covering plants to a minimum around your plot. We need to keep the area directly around your vegetable plot as light and airy possible.
- If you fancy an evening stroll in the garden, don't forget your torch. Seek out the slugs and pop them into a bucket. You can then do what you wish with them but a little water in the bucket will do a lot to reduce the slug population.
- Encourage slug-eating birds with nesting boxes and bird tables. Don't put these directly next to your plot but anywhere else will bring the birds in and they may fancy a little slug side-dish.
- Make a water haven for frogs and toads. This does not have to be a huge lake or a beautiful water feature as a simple bucket sunk into the ground and filled with water will attract the frogs. It is a good idea to surround it with dense dark leafy areas in which the slug devouring amphibians can hide then they will return every year and you will have more and more garden helpers.
- Sink a jam jar into the soil of your plot. Fill it with beer, sugar water, sweet or even luscious lettuce leaves. The slugs will enjoy a 'final' meal but remember to leave a twig inside to allow other insects to escape. Don't forget to keep it clean and topped up and don't put it too close to your precious plants or you may attract a new population! |
|
