Lawn Care and Slugs

Slugs are soft-bodied brown or gray-colored terrestrial mollusks that are pests of many plants in the yard. These unwanted creatures, which are rarely seen during the daytime, leave a slimy trail wherever they move, a telltale sign of a problem.

Damage

• Slugs eat plant leaves and prefer seedlings. They also eat fruits and vegetables in the garden. They create holes in plant leaves that give the plant a poor appearance. In extreme cases, they cause plant death.

Environment

• Moist areas attract slugs, with populations often growing larger during rainy seasons. They also require locations with ample shade.

Solution

• Removal of plant debris that offers a shady, moist home for slugs; managing the height of plants and grass to increase light and air movement in the yard; and watering the lawn and plants only when necessary may help control slugs. You may also remove them from plants by hand, use traps, or apply pesticides for serious infestations.