Gardeners plagued by slugs eating their plants have been advised to use an unusual but effective solution - beer.
Garden experts have revealed that slugs are attracted to the yeasty aroma of beer, making it an excellent trap for these garden pests.
By placing shallow dishes of beer around garden plants, slugs will be drawn to the liquid and ultimately drown.
This beer trick is just one of 10 common household items that can be repurposed for unusual garden uses, according to the experts. Other everyday products that can benefit gardens include banana skins, eggshells, coffee grounds and washing-up liquid.
Household products can be used to deter slugs
GETTYThese cost-effective solutions can help gardeners tackle common problems while saving money on specialised products. Whether it's lager or bitter, the experts say slugs aren't fussy about their beer preference - they'll be attracted to the smell regardless.
A spokesperson for GardenBuildingsDirect.co.uk said: "Our advice to anyone blighted by slugs is to simply offer them a beer.
"If you've been having issues with them eating your plants, placing a few shallow dishes around the garden will help draw them in. Products like coffee grounds are full of nutrients and an excellent addition to a compost heap.
"Banana skins make for the perfect natural fertiliser thanks to the numerous nutrients they contain [and they can deter slugs].
"Everybody loves a hack, especially one that saves money. Putting these common household items to use in your garden could help to solve any issues you're having whilst saving you money as well."
Banana skins are particularly valuable in the garden as they contain potassium, magnesium and phosphorus. These nutrients promote healthy plant growth, making the peels an excellent natural fertiliser.
Eggshells provide another cost-free garden solution as they're rich in calcium. Simply crush them into powder and mix into the soil around plants to create a homemade fertiliser.
Coffee grounds can be used in multiple ways in the garden. They make an excellent addition to compost heaps due to their nutrient content.
The grounds can also be applied directly to soil around most plants. These everyday kitchen waste items contain nutrients that plants need for growth.
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Slugs are drawn to beer in the garden
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By repurposing these items, gardeners can reduce waste while improving their gardens. These natural alternatives can help reduce reliance on commercial fertilisers.
Washing up liquid offers a chemical pesticide for dealing with aphids. Mix a small amount of water in a spray bottle and apply to plant leaves regularly.
Bubble wrap can protect plant roots from frost during winter months. Simply wrap it around plant pots and secure it with twine.
Used matchsticks contain small amounts of phosphorus that promote plant growth. Bury them head down in the soil to release this beneficial nutrient.
Old colanders can be repurposed as hanging flower pots, utilising their built-in drainage holes. Line with soil and plants, then hang using string through the handles.
Potato cooking water contains nutrients beneficial for plants. Allow it to cool before using it to water garden plants, but only if no salt was added.
Muscle pain relief spray can deter cats from gardens when applied to dried teabags. The tea leaves absorb the smell, which cats dislike, and it remains effective for weeks.
