Well the most popular barrier that’s sold in the UK is copper tape for slug repelling. Which just shows how wrong most people get their barrier selection.
“A recent RHS study in a garden-realistic scenario found no reduction in slug damage from barriers made of copper tape, bark mulch, eggshells, sharp grit, or wool pellets (Royal Horticultural Society, 2023).”
We’re not saying copper tape doesn’t work against slugs, but it really shouldn’t be the most popular slug barrier—especially since it’s not even among the top three. If you’re specifically interested in copper, we’ve written a detailed blog post on the topic, which you can find here. That post includes a video demonstrating why copper has some effect, but also why we don’t rate it very highly as a slug and snail barrier. We recommend using it only as a supplementary measure alongside more effective barriers.
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 Repels Slugs
Copper reacts with the slime slugs secrete, giving them a mild shock that repels them. Unlike baits, copper tape uses this natural repellent effect so there’s no mess or dead slugs to clean up. 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:
Pure Copper ContentLower quality copper tape only has a thin copper coating which wears off quickly, Pure copper content ensures 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. It lays flat and the extra strong adhesive prevents lifting or curling. The 1/2 inch width suits most uses and it bends easily. 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 suffers from poor adhesion with the tape detaching easily. It also does not bend well. Low copper purity and ineffective performance make this copper tape best to avoid.
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!
A slug barrier should be immpasible
we think the most important factor of a barrier is it’s “immpasibility” as that’s exactly why you use a barrier, if it doesn’t have this it doesn’t matter if it scores well on all other features. So a perfect slug and snail barrier will be immposible for all slugs and snails of all shapes and sizes to get past.
a slug barrier should be good for the enviroment
“A slug barrier should not be toxic or harmful to any living beings or the soil. Preferably, it should be locally sourced and sustainably made. It should also be incredibly durable, requiring no replacement.
Copper Tape Slug Repellent Test
FAQ
How thick does copper tape need to be to deter slugs?
Note that it is important that the copper strip be at least 3” wide. Copper strips narrower than 3” will allow the slugs/snails to cross undeterred.
What is the best tape to repel slugs?
Copper tape is an effective way to repel slugs and snails. They avoid crawling over the copper because it gives them a small electrical shock. If you have a problem with these pests, copper tape is an easy and efficient solution to try.
What is the best slug deterrent?
- crushed eggshells.
- pine bark mulch.
- copper tape.
- sharp horticultural grit.
- wool pellets.
Where to put copper tape for slugs?
This self adhesive copper tape can be wrapped around the rim or base of the pot creating a physical barrier slugs will not cross.