The Best Copper Tape for Keeping Destructive Slugs Out of Your Garden
As a gardener, nothing is more frustrating than nurturing your plants only to have slimy, destructive slugs chew them up overnight. These pests can decimate vegetable and flower gardens quickly, leaving behind only damaged leaves and stems. But we don’t have to let slugs take over our hard work! Copper tape is an effective slug repellent that can protect plants without the mess and toxicity of traditional baits. In this article, I’ll explain why copper tape deters slugs, provide copper tape reviews, and recommend the best products for keeping slugs away from your garden.
Why Copper Tape Keeps Slugs Away Copper reacts with the slime slugs make, giving them a mild shock that keeps them away. Instead of baits, copper tape uses this natural effect to keep slugs away, so you don’t have to clean up any mess or dead slugs. It creates an eco-friendly physical barrier that makes plants unattractive.
Copper tape can be wrapped around planters beds, pot rims, and stems to block access and prevent slugs climbing up. The width of most copper tape means it lays flat and secures easily. Unlike diatomaceous earth barriers copper tape won’t blow away or wash off.
What to Look for in Copper Tape
When choosing copper tape, key features include:
Low-quality copper tape has a thin copper coating that comes off quickly. Pure copper content makes sure the tape will last through weather and repeated slug contact.
Strong Adhesion
The adhesive needs to stick securely to various surfaces. Waterproof adhesive prevents lifting or peeling off.
FlexibilityYou want copper tape that’s malleable enough to mold smoothly around curved surfaces and corners Tape that’s too stiff or thick is hard to work with
Width
Standard width is 1/2 inch but wider 3/4 inch tape provides broader plant coverage. Narrow 1/4 inch tape works well for small pots or wrapping delicate stems.
Durability
High quality copper tape can last up to 8 years outdoors. Look for tough construction that resists corrosion.
Copper Tape Reviews
With so many products available, here are reviews of top copper tape choices:
Slug Off Professional Copper Tape – With 99. 9% pure copper, this tape has superior slug repelling ability. The extra strong glue keeps it from lifting or curling, and it lies flat. The 1/2-inch width works well for most tasks, and it’s easy to bend. Overall the best quality and value copper tape.
Corry’s Slug and Snail Copper Tape – This 3/4 inch wide tape provides maximum plant coverage. The adhesive could be stickier but it’s easy to work with and mold around pots. The pure copper holds up well outside. A good mid-range option.
Organic Laboratories Copper Tape – For a budget copper tape, this works decently to repel slugs. The thin copper coating means it won’t last as long but it’s usable for a season or two. The narrow 1/4 inch width limits its use for larger spaces.
Slug Shield Copper Barrier Tape—This brand doesn’t stick well, and the tape comes off easily. It also does not bend well. This copper tape is not recommended because it has low copper purity and doesn’t work well.
Recommendations for the Best Copper Tape
For keeping destructive slugs off your prized plants, I recommend Slug Off Professional Copper Tape for these reasons:
- Highest copper purity for maximum slug repelling ability
- Extra strong adhesive stays in place through any conditions
- 1/2 inch width ideal for most garden uses
- Easily moldable around curved surfaces and pot rims
- Durable construction lasts up to 8 years
While a bit more expensive upfront, Slug Off tape’s superior quality and longevity make it worthwhile for effectively blocking slugs season after season.
For covering larger garden spaces, go with the broader Corry’s Slug and Snail Copper Tape. It provides maximum plant protection at a reasonable price point.
When dealing with delicate flowers and seedlings, wrap stems with Organic Laboratories Copper Tape. The thin 1/4 inch width tape is perfect for smaller plants. Just expect to replace it yearly.
With the right copper tape choice for your needs, you can humanely and effectively keep destructive slugs from ruining your garden. Protect your plants with this safe, eco-friendly barrier. Your garden will thrive slug-free!
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