Slugs

Refer to “Slugs and Snails” in “General Berry Pests”, for more information.

Damage

Slugs eat holes in the ripening strawberries making them unmarketable. Damage to leaves is usually insignificant. They are normally only a problem in wet seasons or when strawberry plantings are adjacent to high grass, bush or other damp areas, and weedy fields.

Management

Cultural Control

Control weeds and keep cover crops mowed as tall grasses and weeds provide protection and may attract these pests.

Chemical control

Deadline M-Ps (4% metaldehyde pellets) at 11.2 to 27.5 kg/ha (4.5 to 11 kg/acre). Apply as a surface broadcast treatment to strawberry rows and headlands in early spring when slugs are first detected. During the flowering and fruiting period apply between the rows only. Do not allow the slug bait to come in contact with fruit. Do not apply more than 6 times per season. Do not apply within 6 days of harvest.

Note: metaldehyde is toxic to dogs, birds and other wildlife. Clean-up or bury any spilled product.

Sluggo or Ferramol (0.76 % ferric phosphate) slug and snail bait at 25 to 50 kg/ha (10 to 20 kg/acre) scattered by hand or granular applicator between the rows and near the base of the plants when slugs are detected. Apply the highest rate if infestation is severe. Reapply at least every two weeks if slugs and snails continue to be a problem. Do not place in piles.

Note: ferric phosphate is not harmful to pets, birds or wildlife.