Slug populations are currently well into critical levels and more wet weather is likely to cause populations to remain high. And, with crops continuing to be drilled into poorly prepared seedbeds, the advice to growers is to remain vigilant against slugs this autumn, or risk major crop losses.
UAP's technical director, Chris Bean, said: “The slug population is very high and akin to previous bad years of infestation. The combination of high numbers of slugs and the difficulty in establishing good seedbeds means that, in some areas, they are literally running riot.”
Bean says that where late drilling is taking place, particularly on heavy ground, and where seeds are poorly covered, then crops will be especially prone to slug damage and growers should not rely on seed treatments alone. "Even with
Deter (clothianidin)-treated seed we are seeing signs of hollowing while some crops have been lost altogether because of growers holding back on treatments when hoping for the best.”
He urges growers to use the recommended dose rates, particularly when up to four applications may be needed in patches, and ensure a targeted approach at all times. “For appropriate control, growers should also consider returning to baited areas every few days to check levels of pellet consumption and replenish stocks if necessary.”
He adds that it is important to use high quality pellets at this stage of the season when traditionally, more wet weather is due. “A well-produced pellet such as the TDS-type will remain intact for up to 21 days in damp conditions, compared with only three to four days for a bran-based equivalent,” he said.
“With 80 per cent of drilling completed in the drier parts of the country, the general rule of thumb for any remaining crops going in is to drill, roll and apply pellets. For those fields already drilled, remain vigilant against slugs or risk losing the crop.”
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