Stop slugs ruining your garden this autumn with 1 common household item

Slugs and snails can be a real problem in the garden, especially in damp autumn weather. But a common household staple could help deter them from your flowerbeds and patios

As temperatures drop and the rain sets in, autumn brings with it an unwelcome visitor — the slug. Damp conditions are ideal for slugs and snails, and they will shortly begin making their presence felt in flowerbeds, across patios and even inside your home.

While it may be tempting to reach for costly chemical sprays to tackle a slug infestation, there is actually a far better solution. You may already have the answer sitting in your kitchen cupboard — and crucially, it won’t cause any harm to your garden.

According to DIY expert Glen Peskett from Saxton Blades Multi Tools, washing-up liquid could prove to be an invaluable household staple as slug season gets into full swing.

He explained: “Washing-up liquid isn’t going to suddenly solve your slug problem, but if you’ve spotted a few on patios or other hard surfaces, a properly diluted solution can be a useful little trick to have up your sleeve.

“Just don’t overdo it. You definitely don’t want to be pouring neat washing-up liquid all over your plants or soil, as that’s not going to do them any favours.”

How to use washing-up liquid to get rid of slugs

Once slugs have been spotted in and around your home, it is important to act swiftly.

Mix a few drops of washing-up liquid with water and apply it to the areas where slugs have been sighted.

It is also a good idea to adopt additional slug-deterring measures to keep your property free of them. Bear in mind that slugs tend to emerge following rainfall, so remain vigilant during wet weather.

Keep your garden free from damp foliage and accumulated debris, and avoid clustering potted plants too closely together, as this creates ideal hiding spots for slugs. Should you encounter any slugs, simply relocate them away from your plants to prevent damage.

Glen said: “Once the weather gets wetter, you’re always going to see more slugs, so it’s really just about keeping an eye out for them.

“Have a look around after it’s rained, especially in those dark, damp spots where they like to hide.

“You don’t need to spend loads of money trying to get rid of them either. There are plenty of little things you can try with stuff you’ve already got at home.

“Just make sure you dilute the washing-up liquid properly and don’t go overboard with it.”