A strawberry mat is a round disc placed at the base of each plant to create a cleaner, healthier growing space and deters pests. They work by suppressing weeds, locking in soil moisture, and lifting fruit off the ground to stop spoilage.
These clever mats also act as a barrier against pests like slugs and snails, helping to reduce damage to both fruit and foliage. Whether you're growing strawberries in open beds, containers, or raised planters, they're an easy upgrade with big benefits.
What Can I Use to Stop Slugs Eating My Strawberries?
Strawberry mats are one of the most effective non-chemical methods to deter slugs and snails. The Gardening Naturally Strawberry Mats are available in two sizes — 27cm and 38cm diameter — and are impregnated with copper, which slugs avoid due to the mild reaction it causes when touched.
This makes the mats ideal for gardeners looking for a safe solution with no risk to pets or children. Once laid flat around the plant, the collar creates a ring that’s hard for crawling pests to cross, reducing the need for pellets or traps.
Benefits of Using Strawberry Mats in Raised Beds or Soil
These mats are a double win — they reduce weed growth and retain moisture around the plant’s roots, saving you time and water. They're UV-resistant and strong enough to handle exposure to rain and sun across multiple seasons, making them cost-effective and long-lasting.
Aside from strawberries, you can also use them to protect other low-growing crops and ornamentals like lettuce, and patio plants. They’re a brilliant option if you want to keep your growing area tidy and productive without reaching for harsh treatments.
How to Use Strawberry Mats
- Clear the Area: Remove weeds, debris, and visible slugs or snails from the soil.
- Position the Mat: Slide the mat around the plant stem using the pre-cut slit and press it down so it sits snugly on the surface.
- Tidy the Plant: Make sure leaves don’t trail onto the soil beyond the mat — this can give pests a way to bypass the barrier.
- Maintain Cleanliness: Brush off leaves or soil that gather on the mat to keep its protective effect strong.
Mats can be used under pots as well as in open soil. They're low maintenance and reusable — just shake them clean and store dry between uses.
Do Strawberry Mats Really Work?
Yes — they’re one of the simplest and most natural ways to boost your strawberry crop. By keeping the fruit cleaner, discouraging slugs, and cutting back on weeds, they let your plants focus on producing better growth. And because they're suitable for organic gardening, they're a smart choice for eco-conscious growers.
How to Stop Slugs Eating Strawberries in Containers and Beds
If you're growing strawberries in containers, grow bags, or raised beds, adding slug and snail copper tape is an easy and effective way to keep pests out. The copper creates a natural barrier that slugs and snails won’t cross, helping to protect your fruit without chemicals. Simply stick the tape around the outside of pots or along the edge of raised beds to create a full perimeter defence. For even better results, use it alongside strawberry mats to keep fruit clean and reduce damage from crawling pests.
How Else Can I Improve Strawberry Growth Naturally?
Getting the most from your strawberry plants isn't just about protection — feeding plays a big role too.
Using a natural liquid feed like the Strawberry Feed can boost fruit production while also improving soil health. This crop-derived concentrate supports strong root growth, better resistance to pests and diseases, and encourages more vigorous plants throughout the season.
Apply every two weeks for healthier plants, especially during flowering and fruiting stages.
Looking for more ways to protect your crops? Check out our slug control guide.