Garden design, garden planning, garden layout, planting plants and planting schemes

Picking your battles to control garden pests

Posted on April 11th, 2009

When it comes to garden pests slugs and snails are probably at or very near the top of every gardener’s pest list? But as EU legislation aided by new scientific research and discovery imposes more and more restrictions and/or bans on the use of agricultural chemicals which is bad news for some gardeners. So without the assistance of any chemical arsenal, how can gardeners achieve a happy and healthy slug free environment?

For years perhaps, organic gardeners have realised that it is possible to have a beautiful and productive garden without resorting to the use of chemical controls which frequently killed both garden pests as well as a range of other living creatures that were often making valuable contributions to making a healthy garden environment, a perfect example being the ladybird.

So if slugs and snails are the cause of such gardener’s misery, a few facts might prove useful, remember, the first line of defence is a good offence, and it pays to know the enemy. Of the many different species only about four are to be found in the average garden. Some live in damp dark recesses, others in soil, which is why it always a good idea to turn the soil in spring.

Similar to snails, slugs move along on paths produced by slug slime fuelled by the enormous amount of dead and alive plant material they munch through. Slugs do not like dry surfaces which is why dry sharp grit is such an effective barrier against slugs. Slug slime also contains a scent which enables the slugs to navigate their way back. Interesting fact is that snails are dormant in the winter but slugs are active throughout the year.

It is probably true to say that so long as there is a supply of lush moist plants growing in the garden, it is unlikely to completely eradicate all slugs and snails. So what we need to focus on is an effective means of controlling the problem.

There are many organic control methods to consider including rings of broken egg shells, trays of beer, coffee grounds and even garlic paste.

Night patrols with torch lamp but here is an alternative to the traditional method with a bucket of hot water. Simply pop the pests into the bucket and later leave in an area for birds to feast on.

Copper tape or bands secured around pots and plants can give electric shock to slugs and snails and deter the pests.

Finally if you must use chemical means of control please kill with kindness by ensuring that there is no risk whatsoever to humans, pets or wildlife.