Introduction
Slugs can be a real nuisance in gardens and around homes, damaging plants and leaving slimy trails. While chemical pesticides are available, they often contain harmful toxins that can affect pets, children, and beneficial wildlife. Fortunately, there are natural, eco-friendly ingredients that effectively deter slugs without harming the environment. Below, we explore five simple yet powerful ingredients that will help keep these slimy pests away.
Ingredients
Crushed Eggshells – The sharp edges of crushed eggshells create a barrier that slugs avoid.
Coffee Grounds – Caffeine in coffee is toxic to slugs and also acts as a repellent.
Diatomaceous Earth – This powdery substance has microscopic, sharp edges that dehydrate and deter slugs.
Copper Tape or Pennies – Copper creates a mild electric charge when slugs come into contact with it, keeping them at bay.
Garlic Spray – The strong scent of garlic is unappealing to slugs and keeps them away from plants and entry points.
Instructions
Using Crushed Eggshells
Rinse and dry eggshells after use.
Crush them into small pieces and sprinkle around garden beds, plants, or home entrances.
Reapply after heavy rain for continuous effectiveness.
Applying Coffee Grounds
Spread used coffee grounds around plants, pots, and garden beds.
You can also mix coffee grounds with water and spray the solution around problem areas.
Using Diatomaceous Earth
Lightly dust diatomaceous earth around plants and garden borders.
Reapply after rain or watering, as moisture reduces its effectiveness.
Placing Copper Tape or Pennies
Stick copper tape around plant pots, raised beds, or entry points to deter slugs.
Alternatively, place old pennies in a ring around plants to create a natural barrier.
Making Garlic Spray
Crush a few garlic cloves and soak them in warm water overnight.
Strain the liquid and mix it with an equal amount of water.
Spray the solution around garden beds, walkways, and home entrances.
Serving and Storage Tips
Since these are natural slug repellents, they don’t require conventional storage like food. However:
Store coffee grounds in a dry container to prevent mold.
Keep diatomaceous earth in a sealed bag to avoid moisture absorption.
Store garlic spray in a covered bottle and use it within a few days for the best potency.
Variations
