# Hostas Need October Prep to Beat Slugs

> October garden cleanup stops slugs from ruining hostas next spring.
- Title: Hostas Need October Prep to Beat Slugs · Homesandgardens
- Summary: October garden cleanup stops slugs from ruining hostas next spring. Removing hosta leaves and soil around plants in October reduces slug damage by spring.
- Keywords: hostas, slugs, snails, october, garden, slug control, hosta leaves, garden cleanup, design, lifestyle, Need, Prep
- Source: Homesandgardens — https://homesandgardens.com/gardens/what-hostas-need-in-october
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: hostas, slugs, snails, october, garden, slug control, hosta leaves, garden cleanup, design, lifestyle
## Hostas Attract Slugs
Hostas grow lush leaves and flowers but slugs and snails damage them in spring and autumn.
## October is Slug Season
October's cooler temperatures and steady rain trigger slugs and snails to mate and lay eggs.
## Clear Leaf Litter
Remove yellowing hosta leaves and garden debris to stop slugs from hiding and laying eggs.
## Use a Spring Tine Rake
A small spring-tine rake like the Expert Gardener 8in from Walmart helps remove decaying foliage.
## Cut Brown Leaves
Cut back brown or yellow hosta leaves at soil level with sharp secateurs for better slug control.
## Remove Overwintering Snails
Scrape top inch of soil around hostas to interrupt slug and snail overwintering cycles.
## Hand-Pick Snails
Hand-pick snails at night with a flashlight and drop them in soapy water to kill them.
## Protect Plants with Copper Tape
Copper tape around hosta pots creates a barrier slugs and snails avoid.
## Use Eggshells for Deterrence
Crushed eggshells make a chemical-free mulch that deters slugs and snails.
## Key takeaway

Removing hosta leaves and soil around plants in October reduces slug damage by spring.