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Slugs are a nasty pest that eats the leaves, flowers and fruits of our various plants in the garden.  I am forever trying to find new ways to combat these slimy critters. 

Slugs love damp, humid, moist conditions.  It is during this type of weather that they are most often found.  Hot, dry and sunny weather is not conducive to slugs so their numbers tend to decline.

Control is possible.  I take a multi-pronged approach using several organic methods to rid my garden of these pests.   Here are several things to employ in your garden.  See which one works best for you.  Be sure to watch my latest video on slug control by clicking here.

• Watering Times
Water early in the morning not in the evening.  Slugs are active at night and evening watering leaves the area wet for them all night long.• Beer
Slugs love beer, use a shallow dish.  You could make a cover for the dish that has a gap for the slugs but keeps the rain out. • Seaweed
Putting seaweed in the garden accomplishes two important things.  Slugs hate it because it is salty and it adds nutrients to the garden.  Pile it on thick up to 4" as the seaweed will dry hard and compact.• Copper
Small copper fences work well to deter slugs from climbing onto the plants.  However, copper is quite expensive.  Be sure that the plants do not grow over the copper creating a gateway for the slugs to climb onto the plants.

• Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earth is the sharp, jagged skeletal remains of microscopic creatures. It literally cuts the soft-bodied pests, causing them to dry out.   Use this powder during dry weather and always use protective mask and glove.  it might be organic but it can still do a lot of damage to your lungs.