How to identify
- Irregular holes with smooth edges
- Shiny slime trails on soil or leaves
- Active on damp nights and cloudy days
Damage: Destroyed seedlings; chewed greens and ripe strawberries.
Control methods
- Hand-pick at night with a flashlight.
- Beer traps or board traps — empty daily.
- Reduce daytime hiding spots (boards, dense weeds) near beds.
- Water in the morning so surfaces dry by night.
What products to use
We list product types and what to check on the label — not brand rankings, prices, or “we tested” claims. Always follow the label for your crop, and prefer the least disruptive option that works.
Iron phosphate slug bait
When: Persistent damage after hand-picking
Look for: Iron phosphate (not metaldehyde near pets/wildlife if you can avoid it); scatter thinly per label