Question From: P. Romanik - Warren, Michigan, United States
Q: Please help me, I'm being overrun by large slugs! These are not you small ones, these are about 6-12" long. They come out at night from who knows where-my front porch step seems to have them coming out. There is no evidence of anything during the day, but wait for sunset, and they start crawling out!! I only have dirt, and some petunias planted on either side of the step. We've been having problems the last few years of them. I know other neighbors have them also, because I can see the slime trails in the morning. Nice and shiny. They seem everywhere. Can you please help me get rid of them. I can't stand them. When you try to pick them up, they string back and are so slimy that you can't get that stuff off! No matter what we do, it sticks on you forever! My husband has gotten the salt shaker out and sprinkled it on them, when we see them, and the slime just comes out and they die off. Wish I can get rid of them so they don't come back. Any ideas will be a great help! Thanks
A: Pam, You can use a combination of things. Snail bait that contains iron phosphate works well for me. It sold under the names of Sluggo, Bonide Slug Magic. Dampen the area in the evening and sprinkle the granules on the ground. It takes a few days, but they will disappear. When the granules are gone, reapply them. You can also trap them by dipping a newspaper in beer and laying it on the ground, I make a mound. Pick it up in the morning and dispose of the slugs as you please. Some folks squash them. The dead slugs attract more slugs. Others pick them up and drop them in a cup of vinegar and water. Use a trowel or wear disposable rubber gloves. I use disposable gloves all the time in my garden. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy
