Spreading snail pellets without due consideration is like throwing cash on the ground. Take some time and mull over the following points – it will save you money.
To get the full potential from your snail pellets – consider the following:
Correct product
- Use the correct snail pellet – for instance Sluggem, Sluggem Prima or Sluggem Mix. The type of snail pellet is determined by the age and type of the snails or slugs.
- The species of slug or snail also plays a role. Do you need Sluggem, Slugger or Sluggit? You do not necessarily need a snail pellet with a double active. Know your species.
- Where you have micro irrigators in place, use the Prima snail pellets (rainproof up to 21 days) for longer lasting protection.
Seasons
- For best results, spread the snail pellets just before or just after rain. Snails and slugs move about when it is wet and are more prone to eating the snail pellets.
- In Summer spread the snail pellets on the drainage ledge amongst the trees or vines. Slugs and snails do not like heat and will move towards the shaded areas.
- In Winter use Prima snail pellets (rainproof up to 21 days). Also cover the whole area with snail pellets. During the wet months slugs and snails move around everywhere.
- Spread snail pellets when vines and trees start to bud and also directly after harvest. These are the time periods when a lot of food is available – slugs and snails lay an abundance of eggs during these interludes.
Places not considered
- Spread snail pellets around the borders of vineyards and orchards. Many slugs and snails migrate into vineyards and orchards from outside areas.
- Bait areas where slugs and snails can hide for example: ditches; windbreaks and heaps of waste plant material.
Monitoring
- Map your farm according to snail populations and adjust the number of baiting points accordingly. If you have a high snail population, 4 to 5 kg per hectare will not be sufficient.
- Monitor the movement of slugs using the SlugPro system.
If you have any questions or need advice please contact the SlugPro expert, Arnold du Preez at 071 485 2550.
