Slugs and snails are not picky with the plants they tackle, but Monty Don has urged people not to use certain methods to banish them from gardens
As milder conditions take hold, so will some of the garden’s pests. Slugs and snails are not everyone’s favourite creatures, and they are often considered a gardener’s public enemy number one.
But they can be both beneficial and problematic for gardeners, depending on the situation. While they play a role in the ecosystem, they can cause significant damage to plants, especially during the growing season – and they can be brutal with budding plants. Slugs tend to live beneath the soil, thriving in damp conditions that are ideal for their survival. On the other hand, snails prefer to live above ground, seeking out dark nooks and crannies, and can often be found clustering around the base of containers
Monty Don explained that despite people seeing more and more of them as their attentions turn to the garden, that not all of them are bad. On his website, he said: “Although there are over 30 species of slug in the UK, there are four main garden ones and the biggest do not necessarily do the most damage. What you see is actually a tiny percentage of the population and slug activity and densities of over 250,000 per acre are common.”
He advised gardeners who want to abolish the pests to avoid using slug pellets or any chemicals, as these could harm other wildlife. Instead, he recommended opting for more eco-friendly methods, such as using a small, slug-free cold frame or table to inspect plants for any pests. This simple yet effective solution allows gardeners to keep an eye on their plants without relying on harmful chemicals. During an interview with BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine, Monty Don shared a simple three-step plan to deal with slugs and snails in the garden:
Step 1: Regularly check plants for slugs or snails, especially in the evening, as they are most active during this time. Step 2: Remove slugs and snails by hands to reduce their numbers in the garden. Step 3: Create natural barriers around plants, such as copper tape or crushed eggshells, to stop slugs and snails from reaching the plants.
Create a ‘snail-free section’
Monty Don also emphasised the importance of creating snail-free sections in the garden for growing delicate plants. When snails and slugs feed on the soft leaves of plants, they can slow down the process of photosynthesis. As leaves are crucial for absorbing sunlight and nutrients, damage to them can stunt the plant’s growth. Once plants are weakened, they are more susceptible to disease, which can then spread to other plants in the garden.
By following these simple steps, gardeners can ensure their outdoor spaces remain healthy and thriving. While it may take a bit of effort to regularly check for slugs and snails, the result is a garden that is free from damage, looking tidy and well-maintained. With a little patience and a bit of work, gardeners can enjoy a slug-free garden while also protecting the environment.
