Slugs and snails have officially made their seasonal debut in my yard. During a recent morning stroll to check on my plants, I spotted a whole family of snails tucked in the corner of a container pot, looking far too comfortable.
Without intervention, I knew these little creatures would soon be munching through my leaves, fruits and vegetables, turning my hard work into a buffet.
So before the contents of my pots become a free dinner for slugs and snails, I know I need to take action. And it just so happens that I’ve come across a slug and snail deterrent that’s not coffee grounds, beer or eggshells.
Warn off slugs and snails with a slippery slide
There are plenty of non-toxic slug and snail deterrents that you can try to prevent these little pests from eating their way through your garden. And there are also specific plants that will stop slugs and snails in their tracks, such as lavender and hellebores.
But aside from these deterrents, there’s another, more unusual hack to prevent slugs and snails taking over, and you'll find it tucked away in your bathroom cupboard.
Petroleum jelly, more commonly known as Vaseline, can create a slippery barrier that slugs and snails can't cross. All you need to do is apply a thick layer around the rim of the container or raised planter to stop them encroaching and reaching your plants.
Once isn't enough
To ensure they stay out, the layer must be thick enough to stop them from reaching the other side, with no gaps for them to sneak through.
Another cautionary warning is not to think the job is complete for the rest of the season. Due to general wear and weathering, the petroleum jelly will start to disappear and will need to be reapplied. Keep an eye on your pots and check how the Vaseline is faring, especially after a heavy downpour.
Alternative ways I prevent slugs and snails in my yard
The human touch
Slugs and snails don’t just appear in plant pots, but when I spot them elsewhere, I remove them humanely. I take them from my pots (if a few have snuck inside) and from other areas of my yard, then place them in an area I dedicate specifically to wildlife.
I have a small wildflower area with some old wooden sleepers placed on some lawn, to attract the birds, bees, frogs, and hedgehogs. By encouraging natural predators, the job is done without any effort.
Watering right
Slugs and snails love moisture and will be drawn to any areas where it’s damp. One way to discourage them is to water your plants earlier in the day, rather than the evening. What’s more, early morning watering is the best time of day to water your plants, according to the experts.
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