Cucumber, Pumpkin, Squash: Slugs

Biology

Slugs are common garden pests in western Washington. They resemble snails, but lack shells. They may vary in size from as little as 1⁄4″ up to several inches in length, depending on age and species. Foliage of older plants is raggedly chewed, while younger plants may be totally consumed. Slugs leave behind a characteristic slime trail, which appears silvery when it dries. Slugs typically feed at night and do more damage during cool, moist weather.

Management Options

Use Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for successful plant problem management.

Non-chemical Management

Select non-chemical management options as your first choice!

• Encourage predators such as birds, garter snakes, frogs, ducks, and predacious ground beetles. Avoid use of broad-spectrum insecticides which kill beneficial insects.
• Hand-pick and kill slugs when noticed.
• Clean up weeds and debris which may provide shelter. Cut tall weeds and grasses around the garden and clean up rocks, boards, and other shelters.
• Trap slugs with cans of stale beer sunk into the ground.
• Use chemical baits with caution, as pets can be poisoned. Iron phosphate-based baits are safer for pets!

Chemical Management

IMPORTANT: Visit Home and Garden Fact Sheets for more information on using pesticides.

• Broadcast to seedbed around border and between rows.
• Do not apply directly to plants.

Approved Pesticides

Listed below are examples of pesticides that are legal in Washington. Always read and follow all label directions.

• Escar-Go! Slug and Snail Bait
  Active ingredient: iron phosphate [EPA registration number: 67702-3-56872]
• Monterey Sluggo [Organic].
  Active ingredient: iron phosphate [EPA registration number: 67702-3-54705]
• This list may not include all products registered for this use.

Additional Images