Why might we see fewer slugs this spring?

The RHS has predicted we'll see fewer slugs in the UK this year

Worms, bugs, snails and slugs are common sights in gardens, parks and green spaces all across the UK.

Their presence can be a nightmare for green fingered gardeners looking to grow delicious crops.

However, fewer slugs will be spotted this year compared to 2024, experts from the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) predict.

It's all down to the cold winter weather and recent dry spell, a big change from last year which saw milder, wetter, weather across the winter, spring and summer months.

Last year's warmer milder weather led to an influx of slugs

Last year's warmer conditions led to the RHS receiving the highest number of calls about the slimy creatures it's had since records began in the 1970s.

The prediction of a smaller population for 2025 is good news for people looking to grow their own fruit and vegetables with minimal interference from slugs.

Did you know it isn't just weather conditions which can impact slug numbers?

According to the RHS, years of high slug activity are often followed by less activity.

It's because when slug numbers are up, the molluscs face a number of threats including predators, disease, parasites and increased competition for food and breeding, which can have a knock on effect on their numbers.

Some species of slug are known for attacking vegetables in gardens

Although many will be pleased to hear fewer slugs are expected this year, the tiny animals are an important part of a healthy garden ecosystem, the RHS says.

Just nine of the estimated 44 UK species are known for being annoying nibblers, chomping away on foods like strawberries, lettuce and carrots.

However, the charity's advice is that young plants are left to grow strong indoors, before being planted outside to keep them out of the way when slugs are about.

"Slugs are here to stay so learning to think like one is how you can best limit their pesky behaviour on your plot," said Hayley Jones who is the principal entomologist at the RHS.

She says actions like inviting wildlife into your garden, changing the times you water plants and also moving slugs to a compost heap later in the day could all help to limit their impact on gardens.