Please be aware that some varieties will now be cut back before delivery.

Garlic Wash Slug Control

Hosta Garlic Wash Recipe

 

We are always asked about how to protect hostas from being eaten by slugs and snails. Garlic wash is a really simple, cheap and safe way to protect your hostas without using harmful pellets. Here is a simple recipe that we use on the nursery.

  1. Take 2 full bulbs of garlic and add them to approximately 2L of water in a saucepan.     
  2. Boil until soft and squash with the back of a fork to release as much juice as possible.
  3. Sieve out skins and bits so you are left with a cloudy liquid concentrate.
  4. Dilute approximately 2 tablespoons to 5L of water in a sprayer or watering can.
  5. Spray or water over your plants once a week February-October.
  6. High dosage and more regular applications may be needed in wet weather.

Store outside in a cool dry place or in the fridge. Can be used throughout the season, make a fresh batch every year.

Sienna Hosta Garlic Wash

 




9 Responses

Ian Phillips
Ian Phillips

July 29, 2024

My hostas have suffered this year and an evening inspection to remove slugs and snails had little effect. On further inspection I found baby snails down inside each plant stem enjoying my hosta salad.

Edie Dingwall
Edie Dingwall

May 24, 2024

I’m going to try this thank you

Barney Rubble
Barney Rubble

May 18, 2024

I made this but then had garlic soup. Is there anything else I can use instead?

Wanda
Wanda

May 04, 2024

Will crushed eggshells be goo all around plant

Louise
Louise

May 02, 2024

Hi I’ve tried this, spraying regularly and it is helping but still some nibbling on some plants. Are there any varieties that seem to be less attractive to slugs and snails???

Louise
Louise

May 02, 2024

Hi I’ve tried this, spraying regularly and it is helping but still some nibbling on some ants. Are there any varieties that seem to be less attractive to slugs and snails???

Beccy
Beccy

May 29, 2023

Thank you for this advice – so excited to try it – is it safe to use on strawberry plants , or will they taste of garlic?
Thank you
Beccy

Claire Millington
Claire Millington

March 16, 2023

Thanks for this-am trying hostas for first time this year. How long is the surplus garlic water concentrate effective for if eg kept in the fridge?

Lynnette Evans
Lynnette Evans

February 10, 2023

Thanks for the garlic tip. It sounds simple and I will definitely try it!

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