Slugs and Snails – Copper Repellent

Q: I understand that one can repel slugs and snails by putting a strip of copper around the edge of pots or raised beds. I can’t find copper strips at local nurseries. Do you know where to get them?

A: It is true that slugs and snails seem to get an electric shock when they touch a piece of copper. Rather than searching for copper strip, try using copper screen. Many hardware stores sell copper screening material along with the familiar aluminum and fiberglass products. You can cut it to width and length with old kitchen shears. Attach it to the edge of a pot with silicon caulk. You can use tacks to affix it to the edge of a wood-lined raised bed.