Slug proof Gardening

Slug proof gardening

We love our slug rings and they are fantastic at protecting your prized dahlias and your precious seedlings… but you don't want to put a ring on every plant! So what to do? We opt for a mix of plants that are naturally slug resistant and just use the copper for show pieces like echinacea, delphiniums and dahlias… and of course the veggie patch.

So how do they do it??

Some plants have built in natural defences against slugs and snails, which make them undesirable to eat through a few clever mechanisms. These slug resistant plants can be used to create a colourful, fragrant and diverse garden that needs less maintenance making gardening a more relaxing and rewarding experience.

Some plants have naturally occurring toxins in the leaves or stems that make them irritating or even poisonous to slugs when eaten. Another group of slug resistant plants are those with thick, hairy or wooded foliage that are difficult for slugs to climb or eat. A third group of plants that are slug resistant are highly aromatic or oily herbs that deter slugs through their strong scent and bitter taste.

Here are a few examples

Foxgloves

One way some plants protect against slugs and snails is through toxic leaves. Foxgloves are a popular example of this. The leaves contain a chemical called digoxin, which is toxic to humans and animals, and also appears to deter slugs and snails. Exercise caution with toxic plants though, as they can be harmful to children and pets.

Euphorbia

Another plant that uses a harmful aspect to protect against slugs and snails are plants in the euphorbia family. Euphorbias contain a sap that can be irritating if it comes into contact with human skin, and also deters slugs and snails from eating the plants. The euphorbia genus covers a large range of plants, so they can be used to create a diverse and beautiful garden.

Lavender

One of the most popular aromatics that is slug resistant is lavender. Lavender, and other Mediterranean herbs, are popular slug proof plants due to their resinous quality and strong fragrance. Other plants that fall under this category are similar, such as rosemary or fennel.

Ferns

Ferns are low maintenance plants that are capable of surviving many hardy conditions. Their thick, tough leaves make it difficult for them to be eaten by slugs and snails as they are tricky to chew, or even to pull off the plant. Ferns are also ideal to fill a large space, and thrive without much feeding or detailed care.

Geraniums

Hairy stems and leaves make it uncomfortable and difficult for slugs and snails to climb the plants or eat them. Geraniums have these hairy stems and leaves, making them not just a colourful addition to the garden, but a hardy and easy to grow flower.