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The different methods of control It is possible to combine several methods to limit the development of slugs.
When there is a high risk of damage, use of chemicals is essential. The Organic Method Working the soil In tracts of land where the risk of attack is high good soil preparation before sowing is advised. Compaction If good farming practice allows, (soil texture and type of sowing), it is useful to compact the soil by rolling to prevent the slugs moving about and reaching the seeds which have just been sown. Incorporation of residues It is good practice to chop crop remains finely and incorporate them well into the soil. Straw burning can also reduce the risk of proliferation. Trapping slugs When climatic conditions are favourable, i.e. in the autumn or in mild and humid springs it is important to watch for the arrival of slugs. The most efficient method of detecting them is to trap them. Traces of mucus can also reveal their presence. Traps should be made from humidity conserving material, e.g. a flat tile, a plastic bag, foam carpet, or soaked corrugated cardboard covering 1m2. The trap sites can be watered to increase their effectiveness. At night the slugs are attracted by these humid shelters and install themselves. It is also possible to add a few molluscicide pellets to kill the slugs that arrive under the trap and thus be sure that they stay there. A check, e.g. every second morning allows detection of the arrival of the slugs. Steps towards a forecasting model An English researcher (Young) has perfected a model for forecasting slug activity. Under English climatic conditions this model allows the level at which to start treatment to be determined. It works based on the air temperature, soil temperature and humidity. In France a model of this type is being studied. The operation is being led by the ACTA, AGPM, CETIOM and ITCF technical institutes. The biological weapon The English and the Swiss have tried to fight against slugs by spraying with one of their predators, the nematode Phasmarhabditis hermaphrodita. This technique has a limited effect. It is difficult to use over extensive cultivated areas, and is marginal because of its high resale price. | |||
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CLARTEX CDP - B.P. 142
- F-32003 AUCH CEDEX
(France)
++ 33 5 62 63
39 22 
++ 33
5 62 63 64 28
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