Common crops affected
What are slugs and snails?
Slugs and snails are molluscs, not insects. They glide on a layer of mucus, feed with a rasping mouthpart, and are most active at night and in humid, wet weather. They shelter under debris, mulch, pots and soil clods during the day. Both slugs (no shell) and snails (shelled) cause similar damage and respond to similar management.
How to identify slug and snail damage
- Irregular holes with smooth edges in leaves, and shredded seedlings
- Silvery, dried slime trails on leaves, soil and hard surfaces
- Damage that appears overnight, worst in damp weather and shaded, sheltered spots
- Grazing on low fruit and vegetables in contact with the soil
Reducing the conditions they love
Cultural steps make a real difference: improve drainage and airflow, reduce dense mulch and debris near vulnerable plants, water in the morning rather than evening so foliage dries by night, and remove daytime hiding places. These steps lower pressure — but in wet seasons an active control is usually still needed.
Recommended Vegalab solution: Slug Control
Vegalab Slug Control is a natural broad-spectrum molluscicide for slugs and snails, designed to be low-risk around pets, wildlife and beneficial soil organisms when used as directed. It fits integrated programs and organic-minded operations, with OMRI-listed options available. Apply around vulnerable plants and known shelter sites, and reapply after heavy rain as needed. Results vary by crop, region and pressure; claims and availability vary by jurisdiction — always read and follow the applicable product label.
| Role | Product | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Primary control | Slug Control | Contact slug & snail knockdown |
Claims and product availability vary by jurisdiction. Always read and follow the product label.