How to Get Rid of Slugs Naturally Without Chemicals

Slug it Out with These Nontoxic Remedies

The battle is on and you find yourself slugging it out with an infestation of big old slugs whose only desire is to eat your garden before you do. Don't give in to the temptation to commercial products to fight your slug battles! These products contain toxins that are harmful to the environment, children and pets. Birds and wildlife that eat slugs will suffer and may die as a result of these toxins. Try these all-natural remedies to rid your yard and garden of slugs.

Prevention

Preventing slugs from entering your garden in the first place will save time and energy later in the season and protect your flowers and veggies from the damage slugs can inflict. Try these natural remedies to prevent slugs from entering your garden.

Egg shells: Create a barrier of crushed eggshells around the perimeter of your gardening area. The shells should be applied in a 2-inch strip. Crush the shells so that the pieces are 1/8 to ¼ inch pieces. Slugs have soft bodies and crossing the eggshells is painful.

Check with a local restaurant for a supply of eggshells. Most will gladly save their shells in a bag or bucket if you ask.

Not only will you deter slugs, but the eggshells will also improve the soil as they break down.

Crushed rock: Create a barrier of crushed rock around the perimeter of your garden. Be sure that the pieces have sharp edges to deter slugs. This solution may be more expensive, but not only will it deter slugs, it is visually appealing and adds a touch of class to your garden spot.

Roofing Shingles: Roofing shingles will provide a nice barrier around your garden. The rough sharp edges prevent slugs from crossing into your garden.

Hair: Some report success with creating a barrier of human hair. Apparently, the hair sticks to the slug's slimy exterior and deters them from crossing into the garden. Check with a local hairdresser for a supply of human hair.

Baiting