Slugs and snails are more prevalent in the fall due to the damp environment created by wet conditions and fallen leaves. To effectively eliminate them, experts advise monitoring for signs of their presence and checking under plant pots and decaying foliage, as these creatures seek shelter in dark, moist areas.
While chemical pellets are a common solution for combating slugs, their use is discouraged due to the risk they pose to pets and natural slug predators like birds and hedgehogs.
Instead of using chemicals, gardening expert Colin Campbell-Preston from Capital Gardens recommends planting certain types of vegetation that deter slugs and snails. One plant in particular that these pests dislike is Euphorbia, also known as spurges, which they find unpalatable due to the bitter taste of the plant’s milky sap.
Euphorbias, with their robust nature and distinct cup-shaped bracts, remain resilient in colder temperatures while deterring slugs and snails. Another effective slug-repelling plant is the geranium, characterized by its hairy stems and leaves that create an uncomfortable surface for slugs to navigate. With over 300 species available, geraniums not only fend off slugs but also serve as durable ground-cover plants, aiding in weed suppression.
