Symptoms
Irregular holes in leaves similar to snail damage but without shells. Active at night and after rain. Silvery mucus trails on soil and leaves. Damage concentrated on seedlings and young tender growth.
Prevention
Reduce moisture and hiding places around plants. Avoid dense mulch near stems. Handpick at night with a torch. Use copper barriers. Improve drainage to reduce slug-favorable moist conditions.
Treatment
Organic
Apply iron phosphate baits. Use diatomaceous earth as a physical barrier. Beer traps are effective for monitoring and control. Apply neem oil drenches.
Chemical (last resort)
Apply metaldehyde baits in the evening when slugs are active. Reapply after rain. Use with caution around edible crops and observe PHI.
Affects 1 crop
Sources
MARDI Vegetable Pest Guide; DOA Extension Bulletin