An article in the 13 Feb 09 edition of Farmers Weekly warns about the over use and inaccurate spreading of metaldehyde based slug pellets. Traces of the chemical have been found in water at levels above the EU drinking water limit. Of course we are told that this poses no threat to human health. Once again we are asked to believe that it is safe to consume low levels of poisons on a daily basis!
Farmers are warned that they face a ban, or severe restrictions, on the use of slug pellets if the situation does not improve. I was horrified to read that upward 10,000T of slug pellets are likely to be applied this autumn.
Gardeners should also be advised of the dangers of using metaldehyde based slug pellets. Every year I see them scattered around some gardens in large quantities. It might help to read just how toxic this stuff is, follow this link for more information.
How to control slugs is the most frequent question asked by those new to organic gardening. The answer is to use a variety of methods that work for you. There are organic slug pellets (Growing Success) that are harmless to animals. I have used them for a couple of years and they seem to work well.
You can also use nematodes (Nemaslug) to control slugs especially on areas where seed are sown. Treat a few weeks before but only if the soil temperature is above 5C.
