Experts suggest that garlic water could be a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution for deterring slugs from damaging garden plants this summer. Slugs, while often seen as pests by gardeners, play a crucial role in the ecosystem, particularly as a food source for birds. As a result, gardeners are encouraged to avoid using harmful slug pellets and instead opt for more sustainable methods to protect their plants.
Slugs are particularly fond of seedlings and other tender plants, often causing significant damage overnight. However, they are not classified as pests due to their important ecological function. Balancing the need to protect young plants while allowing slugs to thrive in the garden can be challenging. Garlic water offers a practical solution that is both affordable and environmentally sound.
Garlic water is an inexpensive and effective deterrent that can be easily prepared at home. A garlic bulb, which typically costs between 20 and 30 pence at a local supermarket, is all that is needed. This natural alternative avoids the use of harsh pesticides, making it a popular choice among gardening experts.
There are two recommended methods for preparing garlic water:
Boiling Method (Gardener’s World):
- Boil one litre of water and add a whole garlic bulb.
- Continue boiling until the garlic is soft.
- For larger quantities, use one bulb per litre of water.
Dilute two tablespoons of the concentrated solution into five litres of normal water before use.
Blending Method (Botanist James Wong):
Blend a whole garlic bulb with one litre of water.
Allow the mixture to soak for at least ten minutes to activate the allicin, a compound that repels slugs.
Strain the liquid and apply it directly to plants without further dilution.
It is important to use garlic water sparingly and only on vulnerable plants, such as young seedlings and those with tender stems. Applying the solution in the evening is recommended, especially in areas with a high slug population. Gardener’s World suggests using the solution after rainfall or approximately once a week.
By adopting this natural gardening hack, gardeners can protect their plants from slug damage while maintaining a balanced and healthy ecosystem in their gardens.
