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Slugs
Slugs, a common Garden pest, are snails without a shell. Size can vary from one-fourth
inch to two inches depending on age and species. They spend the winter as pearl-like eggs in
protected places, usually under plant debris.
Feeding occurs primarily in the evening and on dark, cloudy days. They eat irregularly-shaped holes in tender plant tissues, leaving a slime trail behind.
Slugs require a cool, moist environment and won't survive long under dry, warm
conditions. Slug populations thrive under frequent irrigation, heavy shade and high plant
densities that keep soil cool and moist.
Several cultural practices can help manage slug problems. For example, slugs can be
quickly eliminated by creating a drier, warmer soil surface. Drip irrigation, plant spacing and
increased air circulation are recommended management tools.
Good yard sanitation that eliminates daytime hiding places helps control slugs. Or, you
can create hiding places that serve as traps. Simply place wet newspapers or boards in the
Garden. The slugs hiding underneath should be destroyed each morning.
Beer or yeast traps also are effective and easy to make. Just bury a shallow can or bowl
to the rim of the container and fill it with beer or a yeast mix. Slugs are attracted to the yeast, fall
in and drown. You will need to clean out the traps frequently and replenish them with beer or
yeast mix.
When using commercial slug baits, apply them to cool, moist soil in protected places, like
under plants. It's important to note that commercial baits are toxic to children, birds, dogs and
cats that may be attracted to the product. Consider using baits containing iron phosphate. These products are less injurious to pets.
Gardening techniques that help dry and warm the soil surface between plants are most
effective for managing slug problems.
For more information, see the following Colorado State Extension fact sheet(s).
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