Snails stop eating garden plants in the “snail zone” – how to create

Britain’s rainy climate is the perfect environment for slugs, meaning gardeners across the country may find that these pests have been eating their plants and destroying their beautiful flowers.

And even though these animals play an important role in the ecosystem, it is still quite disappointing to find that they have destroyed your vegetable patch.

Gardeners have been known to use numerous methods to repel slugs – from eggshells and coffee grounds to snail traps and slug pellets.

But one way advises gardeners to change their views on slugs and instead of trying to chase them out of the garden, create a habitat for them away from your plants.

Gardener’s World has suggested creating a slug zone as a way to control the population of these animals in your garden.

Experts advised: “You can deliberately lure snails into a dark, shady corner by using something they are attracted to – old vegetable leaves, dried cat food, bread rolls, oats or bran. When they gather to eat at night, swoop in and collect them.”

You can then take the slugs and place them outside your garden – or let them stay in the slug zone and use other repellents around the plants you want to protect.

Professionals have also suggested making one area a completely ‘snail-free zone’, writing: “It’s impossible to eliminate slugs from an entire garden, but you can create a small area designed to keep it slug-free.

“Young seedlings and plants are by far more susceptible to slug attack, so prioritize an area where they will grow, such as an area in a cold frame or raised bed.

“Place a cloth or netting on the bottom of your pots before you fill them with compost to prevent slugs from getting in from under them.

“Delay planting seedlings until they’ve reached a decent size – they’re more likely to withstand slug damage. Don’t overfeed young plants in the spring, as this can create lush, leafy growth that slugs love.”

You can then use different methods to increase the likelihood that this area will remain snail free.