Slugs: The Invisible Night Raiders in Your Vegetable Garden

Leaves stripped overnight, holes in marigolds and basil, no bugs seen by day—classic slug damage. Slugs hide in mulch/soil by day, feed at night. Ants and sowbugs are not the primary culprits.

Organic Slug Control

• Iron phosphate baits (Sluggo, Escar-Go): Safe for edibles, pets, wildlife. Scatter in evening.
• Beer traps: Supplemental—bury cups with beer; empty daily.
• Diatomaceous earth: Only works when dry; better for ants.
• Copper barriers: Tape on raised beds gives mild shock.

Cultural Practices

• Water in morning.
• Thin mulch; avoid heavy wet layers.
• Remove boards, pots, debris where slugs hide.

Iron phosphate baits are the most reliable, low-toxicity option for food gardens.