Potato: Slugs

• Categories: Potato Potato Insects Vegetables
• Last review date: 2024-06-05 10:23

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

See "Using Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in the Landscape" for successful problem management techniques.

Non-chemical Management

Select non-chemical management options as your first choice!

• Remove weeds and debris in and around the vegetable garden.
• Clean up rocks, boards, and other materials which may provide shelter to pests.
• Hand-pick pests when noticed.
• Trap slugs with cans of stale beer sunk into the ground.
• Use chemical slug baits with caution, as pets can be poisoned. Iron phosphate-based baits are safer for pets!

Chemical Management

• Apply around borders and between rows when slugs or damage are first observed.
• Do not apply to plants.

Approved Pesticides

If you choose to use a pesticide, some examples of products that are legal in Washington are listed below. Some products are labeled for just INDOOR or just OUTDOOR use, or may allow both uses. Be sure to choose a product appropriate for your situation. 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.