Slugging the Slugs
It soon will be time to stock up on insect and weed control products. Slugs, like snails, are Mollusks, not insects. They have soft bodies, about 1” to 2” long, covered with mucous membrane. They can live for several years, overwintering in the soil and surfacing in early spring. As they slither across the garden, they leave a tell-tale slimy trail behind. During the day, they hide in dark, moist places, often under rocks and garden debris. At night they look for food – lettuce and other green vegetables with leaves near the ground are favorites. Leafy ornamental plant such as hosta can be destroyed. Natural enemies are robins, ducks, and other birds, as well as ground beetles, turtles, and snakes.