Is there anything more annoying? Seeing months of hard work, care, and attention to a flower bed ruined by a hungry slug is one of the most frustrating experiences of a garden enthusiast.

Many people across the country have tried a variety of methods to deter curious pests from nibbling on their plants, only to find that their efforts were in vain. But according to one gardening expert, there is a novel and simple solution that can be effective in protecting your plant leaves from becoming pot-holed messes. Thomas Rutter of Homes and Gardens said: “The cucumber hack to stop slugs and snails is surprisingly simple, and while it won't eradicate these pests, it can help to control their numbers.

“First, raid your fridge drawer and retrieve a cucumber, before slicing it thinly. Don't worry about the quality of the cucumber here; in fact, it is best to use those that are past their best.

“Next, place the slices near your vulnerable plants in the evening. This method is similar in principle to companion planting or trap plants for pest control, in that the cucumber slice is a sacrificial tribute to lure the slugs and snails who will be attracted to the scent and moisture of the cucumber.

“After a few hours, with a torch in hand, or otherwise in the morning, you can inspect the slices and collect the gathered pests and relocate them far from your veg patch, or dispose of them, depending on your preference.

“This method is chemical-free, safe for pets and requires almost no effort.”

The humane method removes the need to kill pests by simply following the natural instincts.

Rutter says that relocating them to an area that ensures that they will not return is simple and is ultimately beneficial to your garden.

He added: “To prevent slugs and snails from returning to the scene of the crime, move them at least 50 or more feet away from your yard. This distance is sufficient to overcome their homing instinct.

“While they might be frustrating, particularly if they have devoured your strawberry or chard crop, slugs and snails play an important role in the biodiversity and ecosystem of backyards.”