Gardeners are being urged not to throw away their eggshells after breakfast as experts claim they could help stop slugs and snails destroying plants. The low-cost gardening trick involves crushing leftover shells into small shards and scattering them around vulnerable plants.

Experts say the sharp texture can help deter slugs and snails from reaching stems and leaves. The advice was originally shared by gardening experts speaking to The Spruce and has since gained attention among gardeners looking for chemical-free ways to protect their plant.

Horticulture expert Chrissie Handley said crushed eggshells can act as a natural barrier. She told The Spruce: “The sharp texture will prevent them from accessing the plant via the stem.”

Gardeners are advised to allow the shells to dry before crushing them into small pieces. However, experts warn not to grind them too finely. Handley said: “Don't crush them up too fine. You want small, sharp shards.”

The shells should then be scattered around the base of plants that are regularly targeted by slugs and snails. As well as acting as a deterrent, the eggshells will naturally break down over time. Handley said they can also provide a small calcium boost to garden soil.

Other natural slug deterrents highlighted by experts include used coffee grounds, essential oils and copper. Coffee grounds can create a gritty surface around plants, while strong scents such as lavender, eucalyptus and geranium may also help keep pests away.

Copper wire and old pennies are another option, as slugs are believed to dislike crossing copper surfaces.