Garden Slug

Slugs are scientifically known as Arion Hortensis Agg., are gastropods without or with a very small shell which is conceived in the mantle. These slimy species move on a trail of slime which it secretes by the pedal gland which is located just below its mouth. A garden slug spreads through the mass reproduction of eggs. A slug lays an average of 20-30 eggs per time while this number may vary according to the age of the slug. An adult may lay comparatively fewer eggs than a young slug. Reproduction takes place during any month of the year in outdoor soil surfaces. Many of these slugs are common particularly in the United States for being garden pests, out of which the garden slug is one of the most destructive.

The garden slug was introduced to the United States from Europe in the 1800s. They have been commonly known for being pests of garden vegetable, field crops and ornamentals attacking both leaves and root crops. The garden slug is found in large numbers in damp weather seasons of the year whereas the dry seasons are spent in concealed shelter spots. A garden slug is about 2-3 centimeters long when fully grown and its head contains two sets of tentacles. The upper tentacle is where the eyes are located while the lower tentacle is used for tasting and smelling. The mouth is located below the lower tentacle and contains a radula-a tooth which is use to grate plant tissues.

However despite its destructive nature in cultivated areas, the garden slug becomes beneficial when recycling organic material used to build soils. But since its drawbacks surpass the benefits, various methods are used to control these pests.

One precautionary slug control method is to search for egg masses of the garden slug and destroy them. Another preventive measure is to remove debris, logs and stones while maintaining trimmed grass and weed since the garden slug populates and shelters around these areas. Watering crops only when necessary will reduce the dampness in the farm which will further discourage the spreading of the garden slug.

Commercial slug pellets such as Metaldehyde and Methicarbs are widely available, but is discouraged to use in organic gardening due its chemical base. Moreover from a garden wildlife perspective, species will be harmed by eating poisoned slugs. Therefore organic methods include copper pipes and commercial slug rings which stimulate the slugs' aversion to copper, are highly recommended. In addition, beer or milk traps which are used to drown slugs; and comfrey, which can be used to round plants that need protection, are commonly used methods. Natural slug predators include frogs, topes, selective birds and beetles. Encouraging these creatures would assist in curbing the slug population.

It has been identified that the best times to control slugs is during the seasons of spring and fall. It has also been proven that the best garden slug control method applicable is the use of low toxic, iron phosphate-based slug baits.