Gardening experts share simple 3-ingredient homemade deterrent to get rid of slugs

Gardeners are being plagued by slugs and snails, notorious for munching through seedlings and leaving unsightly holes in plants. These pests, which often venture indoors during cooler months, leave behind slime trails as evidence of their presence.

To combat these nocturnal nuisances without resorting to harmful chemicals that could endanger pets and children, gardening gurus have recommended a "yeast trap". This eco-friendly solution not only protects plants but also keeps other wildlife safe.

Maria Kincaid, FeatherSnap's head ornithologist, advocates for natural pest control methods. She shared her insights on the effectiveness of yeast traps, stating: "The yeast and sugar mixture creates a scent that closely resembles beer, which slugs find irresistible. When they approach the trap, they become submerged in the liquid and are unable to escape."

Ms Kincaid further explained the benefits of this method: "The great thing about this hack is that once the slugs are in the trap, birds can then eat them without posing a risk to their health." She added: "This keeps your garden clean and saves you from cleaning up the mess left by the slugs once they've been caught," reports the Express.

Birds such as thrushes, blackbirds, and starlings have been singled out for their role in consuming garden pests. They routinely feast on molluscs found in abundance across UK gardens.

To create an effective yeast trap, mix one teaspoon of dry yeast, one tablespoon of sugar, and a cup of warm water until fully dissolved and foamy; then pour the concoction into shallow receptacles scattered around your garden. Ms Kincaid suggests: "Place these containers in areas of your garden where slugs are known to frequent, such as near plants.

"To prevent birds from drinking the liquid directly, bury each container so that the rim is level with the ground. You can also loosely cover the containers with flat rocks or leaves, leaving just enough space for slugs to crawl in. Be sure to check and replace the mixture every few days to prevent odours and maintain effectiveness."