Green methods for keeping snails out of my veggie patch

[iMum]

So my first attempt at growing veggies is going ok, I planted the seeds late and straight into the soil but everything is now coming up nicely.
Ive also got far too much in the one patch but never mind.
So far my little plants have remained free from pest attack (other than the kids footballs) but I am preparing myself, my friend told me that sand around the edge of the patch is a good plan to keep snails off as they dont like it.
Any other top tips?

Pic of my patch is on my profile.

i see no pic.

extermination is the only real option. you have to train a child to help you pick them up and put in bucket (gloves optional). then either execute or remove. i have a rather busy road outside so just put them on the common opposite, they are unlikely to make the return journey.

a shovel

(sorry Gary)

pic is third pic down!

Anything scratchy, so sharp gravel, sand etc. Also they hate coffee grounds.

give up a substitute - we use marigolds, slugs prefer and they look quite pretty!

Coffee grounds or watered down instant coffee is supposed to work, not tried it though.

We have 3 snail traps in our garden filled with beer and sunk in the ground. DH bought them the other day as the little monsters have been eating all my plants. Only had our garden done last month so

my mum swears by crushed egg shells.

The only thing i found genuinely effective, was creeping out in the evening / early morning, especially when it's damp out, picking them off, and throwing them over the back wall

I've tried beer, shells and bark chippings.

Gloves and a yogurt pot of salt water are great for dispatching slugs!!