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IPM Scouting in Herbaceous Perennials

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Slugs
IPM scouting in herbaceous perennials > slugs
Slugs are worm-like, legless organisms that are often referred to as snails without shells. They vary in length from 1 to 15 cm when full grown, depending on the species. Slugs prefer to reside in moist areas and are active at night. They leave a silvery slime trail, which is most noticeable on sunny days. Slugs vary in color from black, brown, lavender, purple and white to yellow. Several have brown specks or mottled areas.

Management: Remove any hiding places including plant debris, weeds, rocks and wood lying on the soil surface. Avoid overwatering herbaceous perennials to minimize creating moist habitats ideal for slug breeding. Commercial molluscicides can be applied in the evening. It is important to irrigate the area before application.
Slugs Slugs have chewing mouthparts and create large irregular, ragged holes on leaves with tattered edges.
This information was developed from A Pocket Guide for IPM Scouting in Herbaceous Perennials by Jan Byrne and Raymond A. Cloyd. Purchase this in a pocket-sized guide for reference in the orchard from MSU Extension (publication E-2981).
The MSU IPM Program maintains this site as an access point to pest management information at MSU. The IPM Program is administered within the Department of Entomology, fueled by research from the Michigan Agricultural Experiment Station, delivered to citizens through MSU Extension, and proud to be a part of Project GREEEN.
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Updated 8/07/07