With summer on the horizon, those pesky slugs become night-time prowlers, thriving in the cool, damp conditions. If you’re watering your plants in the evening, you might just be rolling out the red carpet for these slimy critters. Though they’re not classified as pests, slugs can wreak havoc on your beloved crops, and it’s no wonder many of us are keen to keep them at bay. Read more Gardening expert’s easy way to keep wasps away – and it costs just 49p Luckily, there’s a thrifty and straightforward solution that won’t break the bank – it’ll set you back a mere 40p. The trick? Garlic cloves steeped in hot water, then decanted into a spray bottle, reports the Mirror . This concoction forms a natural barrier that slugs will steer clear of, all while being kind to other wildlife. You’ll only need a single garlic bulb from your local supermarket, which typically costs around 39p. To whip up this homemade repellent, peel two or three cloves and let them soak in hot water for a full day. Once 24 hours have elapsed, filter the garlic-infused water into an empty spray bottle. Remember to dilute the mixture with additional water before use. A weekly spritz on your plants, or a top-up after rainfall, should do the trick with this DIY deterrent. Gardeners World endorses this “effective” spray, but consistency is key – regular application is essential. There are also other slug-repelling strategies, such as planting certain vegetables in your garden, particularly near those plants that slugs find irresistible. Onions and leeks, with their strong odours, along with fennel, are known to repel slugs. Additionally, herbs like mint and rosemary, when planted close to veggies, can help keep slugs away due to their potent scents. However, it’s marigolds that typically prove most effective when companion planting due to their potent, musky scent.