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If you have ever grown vegetables at home, you are likely familiar with one of the most common garden pests: slugs. These creatures primarily feed on plants, especially tender young leaves. Although slugs move slowly, they reproduce very quickly, particularly during rainy and humid weather. As a result, their population can increase rapidly and cause serious damage to vegetable gardens.

Slugs are most active at night. In just one evening, they can severely damage or even destroy an entire vegetable patch. This makes them a major concern for home gardeners.

When growing clean, organic vegetables at home, many people prefer to limit or completely avoid chemical pesticides to ensure the safety of their families. Fortunately, there are several effective ways to control slugs using simple, natural materials that are commonly available at home.

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Using Beer to Trap Slugs

One of the most popular and effective methods to eliminate slugs is using beer. Beer has a strong aroma that attracts slugs. Simply pour a small amount of beer into a shallow bucket or bowl and place it in the garden overnight.

Slugs will be drawn to the smell, crawl toward the container, fall in, and eventually drown due to the alcohol content in the beer.

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Using Carbonated Soft Drinks

If beer is not available, carbonated soft drinks can be used as an alternative. Pour the drink into a container and leave it in the garden overnight. Slugs are attracted to the sweet smell and will fall into the liquid in the same way.

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Using Eggshells or Rice Husks

Eggshells are another useful material for protecting plants from slugs. After cooking, collect the eggshells, wash them thoroughly, let them dry, and then crush them into small pieces. Sprinkle the crushed shells around the base of plants.

The sharp edges of the eggshells make it difficult for slugs to crawl over them, preventing access to the plants. Additionally, eggshells are rich in calcium, which can help improve soil quality and support plant growth.

Rice husks can be used in a similar way. Their rough and sharp texture also discourages slugs from moving across the soil surface. To maintain effectiveness, it is recommended to replenish eggshells or rice husks periodically.

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Using Fruit and Vegetable Peels

Fruit and vegetable peels can be used as bait to attract slugs. Place peels from fruits such as jackfruit, pomelo, or other aromatic produce in damp areas of the garden. Slugs will gather around these peels to feed, making it easier to collect and remove them manually.

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Using Coffee and Coffee Grounds

Cooled coffee can be poured into a spray bottle and sprayed directly onto plants and soil surfaces. Slugs are sensitive to caffeine and tend to avoid treated areas.

Do not discard used coffee grounds. Spread them around the base of plants and on the soil to help repel slugs while also improving soil structure.

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Using Lime Powder

Sprinkling lime powder on the soil, especially around plant bases, can help prevent slugs from entering the garden beds. For best results, lime can be applied two to three times per month to maintain its effectiveness.

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Conclusion

Controlling slugs with natural materials requires patience and consistency. While these methods may not eliminate slugs instantly, regular application can significantly reduce their numbers and help protect your vegetable garden in a safe and environmentally friendly way.