Key Points
- Very significant cost benefits resulted from the use of all slug baits. In wheat, none of the baits trialed provided financial benefits. Larbait was the best bait for control of slugs in clover – cost benefit $2,428/ha
- In both wheat and white clover, Larbait was effective in controlling juvenile slugs. Mesurol gave effective control of adult slugs in white clover and wheat. Overseas data suggests that mixtures of slug baits can improve control
- Slug traps which measure slug numbers in a confined area can be used to give a guide as the need to apply baits. Based only on last years data in white clover, applications should be made when over 25 slugs/sqm are present. In wheat, economic responses are unlikely until populations exceed 60 slugs/sqm. More data is needed to confirm these thresholds
- Establishing a firm, fine seedbed will help to control slugs. Stock trampling can also be used to reduce populations. These trials were carried out in paddocks where populations were expected to be high.