Re: Slug infestation

[Pictors <jpictor@seidata.com>]

McConnell family wrote:

 We have a serious slug problem in our garden.  Can anyone recommend a
 solution or treatment to remove them.  We have pets and children who
 roam the yard so I can't use just anything.
 L. McConnell
 
 Here are two solutions (slugs do not like sharp surfaces):> 
 Crush washed eggshells fine, and spread them on the surface around the
 base of the plant out 3-4".
 
 OR: Use chick grit (crushed granite) in the same way.  I get chick grit
 at a feed store.  It comes in two sizes--either size works well. (It
 comes in a 50# bag but it is not very expensive; you may want to split
 it with a neighbor.)  I originally bought it to add to the mix when I
 pot rosemary and other plants that need very well-drained soil; last
 year I used it on the surface of the mix after I potted clematis vines,
 because the slugs were eating them up, and it worked.
 
 I have heard of using wood ashes in the same way, but do not know
 whether it would be too alkaline for some plants. Someone with more
 expertise may want to chime in on this particular suggestion.
 
 Jane Pictor
 Jane's Gems Herbs and Flowers Greenhouse