The 60p hack that will slug-proof your garden and stop your plants being eaten
A GARDEN expert has shared a simple 60p hack that will slug-proof your garden and protect your plants this summer.
With the warmer weather upon us, you may have noticed the pesky critters wreaking havoc on your garden.
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If you're wondering how to stop slugs nibbling at your veg gardens and flower beds, you will likely have tried a number of hacks.
This could range from using fresh coffee grounds to slug repellent plants and there are endless pest control methods online.
But, according to Homes & Garden writer, Thomas Rutter, the cucumber hack is the simplest and kindest.
Stopping slugs and snails using the cucumber hack is surprisingly simple.
While it may not eradicate these pests, it can help gardeners control their numbers.
Rutter said: "First, raid your fridge drawer and retrieve a cucumber, before slicing it thinly.
"Don't worry about the quality of the cucumber here, in fact, it is best to use those that are past their best."
Rutter then advises to place the slices near your more vulnerable plants in the evening.
Slugs and snails will be lured to the scent and moisture of the cucumber.
Then, after a few hours or the following morning, you can collect the pests and dispose of them.
It's not too dissimilar from companion planting or trap plants for pest control.
But what's better is that it's a chemical-free approach, safe for pets and requires almost no effort.
Rutter added: "Personally, I think this hack works best when deployed as part of a broader pest management battle plan.
"So, why not learn how to keep ducks, which feed on these pests, while also using some copper tape around the rim of your pots, as well as encouraging natural predators such as frogs to keep the slug population down?"
If you don't want to kill your garden pests, you can easily move them.
Rutter advises to move them at least 50 or more feet away from your garden.
This will overcome the pest's "homing instinct".
You can also place them near a bird feeder and let nature take its course.
But despite the gardener's frustration that slugs and snails have destroyed their veg crop, they play an important role in the biodiversity and ecosystem of our gardens.
They're natural prey to many common backyard mammals and bird species and are also an invaluable part of your garden's composting process.
IF you want to ensure that your home is pest free this summer, here's what you need to know.
Hornets and wasps - hate the smell of peppermint oil so spraying this liberally around your patio or balcony can help to keep them at bay.
Moths - acidic household white vinegar is effective for deterring moths. Soak some kitchen roll in vinegar and leave it in your wardrobe as a deterrent.
Flying ants - herbs and spices, such as cinnamon, mint, chilli pepper, black pepper, cayenne pepper, cloves, or garlic act as deterrents.
Mosquitoes - plants, herbs and essential oil fragrances can help deter mozzies inside and out. Try eucalyptus, lavender and lemongrass.
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