Slug & Snail Control: How to Keep Your Garden Plants Safe with Garlic Spray - Sprouts of Bristol

Slug & Snail Control: How to Keep Your Garden Plants Safe with Garlic Spray

Escrito por: Jessy Edgar

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Tiempo de lectura 2 min

Slug and snail damage is a common frustration for gardeners. You’ve probably tried various remedies like salt, copper tape, eggshells, or even beer traps. But have you ever considered garlic? Turns out, garlic is a natural slug repellent that’s both effective and safe for wildlife.


Garlic contains a compound called Allicin, which slugs and snails find off-putting. Using this simple garlic spray can help protect your plants from being devoured. Plus, it’s safe for humans, pets, and beneficial wildlife—perfect for those mindful of their garden’s ecosystem.

How to Make Your Own Garlic Spray

Prep time

10

Cook time

10

To keep slugs and snails away, you’ll need to apply this garlic spray regularly. A weekly application, plus an extra round after heavy rain, is key. It’s easy to make and safe for your plants, so let’s dive in!


@sproutsofbristol Being wildlife concious in your garden doesn’t need to be hard. I wipped a spray up in my kitchen ona saturday morning before even the dog was up! Now we wait to see the results as my garden is very sad from being munched a little too much. What alternatives have you tried? #creatorsearchinsights #gardeningtips #wildlifegarden #gardenproject #gardentok ♬ lucid - zensei ゼンセー

Ingredients:

  • 2 garlic bulbs (no need to peel)
  • 2L of water

Instructions:

  1. Add garlic bulbs and water to a saucepan.
  2. Boil for about 15 minutes, until garlic softens.
  3. Mash garlic with a potato masher to release the juices.
  4. Strain out the garlic skins, leaving a cloudy liquid concentrate.
  5. Let the liquid cool before transferring it to a bottle.
  6. Dilute 2 tablespoons of the concentrate in 5L of water, using a sprayer or watering can.

Application:

  • Apply once a week from February to October.
  • Saturate both leaves and soil beneath your plants.
  • After heavy rainfall, reapply the spray to maintain effectiveness.

Plants That Slugs & Snails Love to Eat

Garlic spray is an excellent way to protect plants that are a favourite snack for slugs and snails. Apply regularly to keep these beloved plants safe from damage.

  • Hostas
  • Delphiniums
  • Cosmos
  • Dahlias
  • Lupins
  • Sweet Peas
  • Tulips
  • Peas & Beans
  • Lettuce & Celery
  • Potato Tubers

By using garlic spray, you can help preserve these plants and keep them looking healthy and vibrant, free from the damage caused by slugs and snails.

Plants That Slugs & Snails Don’t Like to Eat

Some plants naturally repel slugs and snails due to their strong scents, rough textures, or bitter taste. Consider adding these to your garden for natural protection.


  • Lavender
  • Rosemary
  • Sage
  • Ferns (especially dryopteris)
  • Alliums
  • Yarrow
  • Marigolds
  • Garlic
  • Chives
  • Mint
  • Thyme
  • Oregano
  • Leeks

These plants are less likely to attract slugs and snails, helping to naturally protect your garden without the need for additional treatments.

Keep Your Garden Gorgeous & Pest-Free

By using this simple, organic solution, you can protect your plants from those pesky slugs and snails. Not only will your flowers thrive, but you’ll also enjoy a bountiful harvest of veggies without worrying about destructive pests.

Give it a go, and watch your garden flourish!


Jessy Edgar

Jessy is the founder of Sprouts of Bristol, a plant and gift shop in the heart of the city. Passionate about greenery and creativity, Jessy shares practical plant care advice and inspiration for bringing nature into your home.

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