'Juneuary' Slug Fest

Groan... with the cold, wet weather we've had lately, the slugs are having a feast on everything in my garden. I have been using 'Safer's Slug Bait', another trick is beer traps which I've tried in the past and maybe my containers weren't deep enough because the slugs came in for a drink and none were drowned in the brew!! 

Broccoli plants under slug attack

Even though my garden is tucked in and covered with ProtekNet many of my plants are being wiped out by slugs and I'm not alone!! I knew that the ProtekNet would keep out any flying insects but what ever... who ever ... is living in the soil is now the problem, and a big one so far!!

Years ago I got a roll of 'Copper Blocker' from Lee Valley Tools and had great success with it to control damage from slugs and snails. It comes in a roll, I cut a piece about 6" then insert thumbs and pull so it rolls out like a tube sock.

Pet and wildlife friendly options

The photos on Lee Valley's link are a bit more descriptive. This stuff works!! I didn't put it on the broccoli starts that I planted in the garden and many of them have suffered because of that. Afterwards, I used some of the old copper rings from years past and immediately the problem stopped. It loses its copper shine once exposed to the elements but I have re-used the faded copper rings for years after and they are still as effective as when shiny and new!

Garlic Scape Pesto, portioned and frozen

Another task in the garden right now is to remove the garlic scapes. If you have never heard of these, check out my Featured Post. If you don't have garlic in your garden, some Farmer's Markets have opened with social distancing and Covid19 protocols. Besides eating fresh, local vegetables, you support the local farmer's and for sure, garlic scapes will be available at the Markets. The season is short so don't delay!

Sunflowers are struggling under slug attack

I made a double recipe of my 'Garlic Scape Pesto' without the Parmesan Cheese, portioned 1/2 cup into each snack bag then froze them flat on bake sheets. Once frozen, move them to a large freezer bag. To use, defrost and add grated Parmesan Cheese if desired.

Until next time... 
Please stay healthy, be safe, take good care...  
Happy Gardening and Bon Appétit!

Photos by Sally Rae