Slug
Gastropoda
7 host plants
Last updated
Slugs create holes and ragged edges on rose, strawberry, and other plant foliage and stems in gardens; characteristic slime trails mark their movement and feeding sites. Slugs chew holes with smooth edges between leaf veins, and seedlings may be completely consumed leaving only midribs and stumps. Sausage-shaped feces in the garden indicate slug presence.
Reduce habitat by pruning lower branches to allow sunlight and air circulation. Place boards under plants and hand-collect slugs each morning. Beer traps attract slugs to drown. Copper barriers deter slugs by reacting with mucous. Iron phosphate bait is safe around children and pets.
Quick Reference
Slugs are closely related to snails but have no shell. Slug damage can be distinguished easily from damage caused by other pests by the presence of slime trails. Feeding damage to foliage is removal of plant tissue between veins and on the edge of leaves. Slug damage tends to be heaviest along field margins. Weedy or grassy borders serve as excellent habitat for slugs. High populations build up in perennial legumes used for cover crops.
Cultural Controls
- Encourage predators such as birds, garter snakes, frogs, ducks, and predacious ground beetles.
- Avoid use of broad-spectrum insecticides which can kill beneficial insects.
- Clean up weeds and plant debris which may provide shelter for the slugs.
- Cut tall weeds and grasses around the strawberry planting and clean up rocks, boards, and other shelters with the planting.
- Home gardeners: Hand-pick and kill slugs when noticed.
- Trap slugs with shallow...