Slugs and snails

Quick facts

Signs: Ragged holes, slime trails, and chewed seedlings outdoors.

Organic control list:

Prevention note: Check after rain or heavy watering.

• Hand-pick at night.
• Use copper barriers.
• Use iron phosphate bait as directed.
• Remove damp hiding spots.

What to do next

• Isolate the plant if it is indoors or in a crowded collection.
• Inspect leaf undersides, stems, soil surface, and new growth.
• Physically remove what you can with water, wiping, pruning, or hand-picking.
• Use the lowest-risk organic control that matches the pest.
• Repeat checks because eggs and hidden life stages often survive the first treatment.

Watch-outs

Do not spray first and identify later. The wrong treatment wastes time and may stress the plant.

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