Slug numbers on the rise across Shore

Slug numbers are on the rise across the Eastern Shore, prompting warnings for farmers to stay alert as the pests pose increasing threats to young crops this spring.

Dr. Kemper Sutton, Entomology Extension Specialist at the Eastern Shore Agricultural Research and Extension Center (ESAREC), reports that early-season trapping has revealed unexpectedly high slug activity—even following February’s major snowstorm. Sixty-five traps placed shortly after the snowfall yielded a surprising 38 slugs in the first check, despite lingering snow on the ground.

“Given how cold it had been, we were certainly surprised by those numbers,” Sutton said. “Since then, slug counts have remained steady, with some fluctuations likely tied to changing weather conditions.”

Based on last year’s data, slug populations are expected to continue climbing throughout April, peaking in May. Fields with no-till practices, heavy corn debris, or cover crops are especially vulnerable to slug damage.

Sutton recommends growers monitor their fields using simple slug traps made from one-square-foot pieces of black roofing shingle placed along field edges. If more than 10 slugs are found beneath a trap, the area is considered to have high slug pressure.

Unfortunately, control options remain limited. Molluscicide baits are available but come with several challenges—they are costly, labor-intensive to apply, and must be spread at least 24 hours before any rainfall to work effectively.

“Virginia Tech is actively researching the effectiveness of these baits and looking at the best ways to deploy them,” Sutton said.

Slug monitoring efforts at ESAREC will continue through the season, with additional updates planned for future editions of Stalk. Growers are encouraged to keep tabs on slug pressure in their fields and reach out with observations or concerns.