How to Get Rid of Slugs in Your Garden

Do I Have Slugs?

Silvery slime trails and ragged holes in young, tender plants (especially hostas, lettuce, strawberries) are telltale signs. Slugs feed at night and hide in damp, dark places.

Reduce Hiding Spots

Eliminate boards, rocks, debris, and pots where slugs shelter. Check under them daily and dispose of slugs (wear gloves, bag and trash). A piece of decaying fruit under a board in a damp spot lures them for easy collection.

Beer Traps Work

Slugs are drawn to yeast. Bury a steep-sided container with beer or yeast-sugar water up to 1-inch entry holes cut in the sides. Slugs crawl in and drown. Cover to keep out other animals.

Other Barriers

Pine needle mulch deters slugs (unlike bark). Sprinkle dry wood ashes or food-grade diatomaceous earth around plants — sharp particles irritate slug bodies. Reapply after rain. Sprinkle diatomaceous earth under outdoor rugs where slugs congregate.

Slug Baits

Products like Escar-Go! or Sluggo (iron phosphate) are effective. Place near damp hiding spots. Follow labels — most baits are toxic to pets and children; store securely.

Combining these strategies reduces or eliminates slug populations.