What’s the best way to control slugs in my garden naturally?

Slugs love hostas, so you’re definitely not alone! They tend to feed at night or during damp weather, which is why the leaves can suddenly end up full of holes.

If you’re looking to avoid chemical slug pellets, one of the most effective natural controls is beneficial nematodes.

For garden slugs, look for Phasmarhabditis californica (Pc) or Phasmarhabditis hermaphrodita (Ph), depending on what’s available where you live. These microscopic nematodes are watered onto the soil, where they actively search for slugs and infect them naturally. They’re harmless to people, pets, birds, hedgehogs, earthworms and plants, making them an excellent choice for wildlife-friendly gardens.

For the best results:

* Apply to moist soil and keep it damp for at least a week after application.
* Treat when the soil is warm enough (follow the supplier’s temperature recommendations).
* Apply in the evening or on a dull day to help the nematodes survive.
* They work below ground, targeting slugs before they emerge to feed.

You can also reduce slug damage by removing hiding places such as dense weeds, boards and pots around your hostas, watering in the morning rather than the evening, and encouraging natural predators like frogs, toads, ground beetles and hedgehogs.

Hostas are one of a slug’s favourite meals, so a combination of beneficial nematodes and good garden hygiene usually gives the best long-term control without the need for chemical pellets.

Biopredator · Admin