Control slugs now to ease spring damage

"After battling them all summer you might be tempted to give up and let slugs and snails win. Don’t do it! Continue applying slug bait (Corry’s® or Sluggo®) until temperatures fall to about 35F. This will reduce the population that can damage your garden before you start battling them next spring." - Ray, Plant Care Expert

As the summer draws to a close and the crispness of autumn begins to fill the air, it's tempting to heave a sigh of relief as the garden pests that have plagued us all season start to dwindle. However, there's one battle we shouldn't give up on just yet - the fight against slugs and snails. Ray, our knowledgeable plant nursery employee, offers some invaluable advice that can make a significant difference in the health and beauty of your garden come spring.

Info-graphic for Corry’s® slug bait.

Slug Bait: Your Trusted Ally

The cornerstone of Ray's advice lies in the strategic use of slug bait, particularly products like Corry’s® or Sluggo®. While it's tempting to toss in the towel after a summer of constant slug skirmishes, Ray encourages gardeners to stay vigilant and continue applying slug bait until temperatures drop to around 35°F. This approach might seem surprising, as it's easy to assume that cooler temperatures would naturally reduce slug activity. However, Ray's insight reveals a crucial reason to persist.

By consistently applying slug bait until temperatures plummet, you're not just dealing with the slimy adversaries currently wreaking havoc in your garden. You're effectively controlling the population that could potentially damage your beloved plants come spring. Slugs and snails are known for their ability to reproduce rapidly, so knocking down their numbers now can yield a garden that blooms with vigor once the warmer months roll around again.

Safe and Nutrient-Rich

Perhaps one of the most intriguing aspects of Ray's advice is his mention of the safety and eco-friendliness of slug bait options like Corry’s® and Sluggo®. These products contain ingredients like iron phosphate or sodium ferric EDTA, which, when used correctly, are remarkably safe for the environment. And here's the cherry on top: these compounds break down over time, transforming into plant nutrients. So, not only are you protecting your garden from ravenous slugs, but you're also contributing to its overall health in the long run.

A Bonus Benefit: Pest Control

But wait, there's more! Ray's wisdom doesn't stop at slug control. If you've been dealing with other pesky intruders like crickets, sowbugs/pillbugs, or earwigs, there's a solution for that too. Sluggo Plus® steps up to the plate, offering effective control against these unwelcome guests. It's like getting a two-for-one deal on garden pest management!

As the gardening season transitions from summer to autumn, it's easy to overlook the significance of continuing slug control efforts. However, Ray's expert advice sheds light on the importance of persevering and taking action until temperatures drop. By doing so, you're not only protecting your garden from potential springtime devastation, but you're also using eco-friendly solutions that contribute to your garden's long-term vitality. So, let's take Ray's advice to heart and ensure our gardens thrive, not just for now, but for seasons to come.

West Seattle Nursery