Strategic Habitat Modification

Clear the Environment

Slugs require moisture and cover to survive daylight hours. Start by inspecting your borders for 'slug hotels'—overturned pots, piles of damp leaves, or dense, low-growing weeds against your prize plants. Rake back mulch that touches the stems of vulnerable seedlings, as this creates a direct pathway for pests. If you have gravel paths, rake them regularly; slugs find rough, dry surfaces difficult to navigate. ## Targeted Barriers Place copper tape around the circumference of containers. Copper creates a mild electrical charge that deters gastropods, but only if the surface is clean; wipe the tape monthly with vinegar to remove grime. For seedlings, use recycled plastic bottle collars or crushed eggshells. The key is to keep these barriers dry. If a barrier becomes wet or covered in dirt, it functions as a bridge, allowing the pests to climb over it effortlessly. Keep your garden tidy to minimise refuge areas.