Physical Remedies
Copper slug barrier
Examples:
Snail Barr, Dr. Harvey's Copper Mountain, or generic sheet copper.
Effective Against:
Slugs, snails.
Crops:
Any susceptible crops that can be surrounded by the barrier; slug-prone crops include tender leafy greens, strawberries, dahlias, hosta, and marigolds, among others.
Counteracts these pest(s):
When To Use:
All year round.
How To Use:
Snail Barr works best when attached to raised-bed gardens. The copper should be installed vertically like a fence rather than flat on the ground. The strip should be at least three inches high. Snail Barr has tabs that can be folded over to form an additional obstacle.
Dr. Harvey's Copper Mountain is a freestanding barrier made of copper-impregnated plastic. As soon as the barrier is installed, any slugs trapped inside must be removed. Go out at night for several evenings and capture slugs found within the barrier. Also be sure to keep plants trimmed or pruned so that they don't lie across the barrier, forming a bridge that slugs can use to cross. The copper will gradually weather to a greenish-blue color, but it still works. Wear gloves when working with sheet metal to avoid cutting yourself on sharp edges. If slugs are numerous, combine slug fences with traps (baited with beer) and regular slug hunting expeditions. If you can't find copper or want to pay less, there is evidence that zinc also works. Zinc galvanized flashing is somewhat less expensive than copper and is readily available.
Benefits:
Highly effective. Avoids the use of chemical baits. Low effort and maintenance once installed.
Concerns:
- Rather expensive.
- May be difficult to find. Phone around to locate