Evaluation of Molluscicides for Slug Control, 1987

Four molluscicide treatments were evaluated for slug efficacy on a Hagerstown silt loam soil in Centre County, Pa. A radomized complete block design with 4 replications of 5 treatments was used. On 9 Jun a pretreatment damage assessment was taken and molluscicides were applied. Applications of liquid molluscicides were implemented using a backpack spray system adjusted to 30 psi and 26 gal/acre liquid output. Flat-fan nozzles (LF4, 80 degrees) were directed over each row to apply the chemical in a 7-inch band. Granular and bait formulations were applied by using the shake method. Corn plants averaged 3 leaves (4 inches high) at the time of application. The no-till field was covered by heavy mulch and some volunteer grasses. The study field was bordered by a windbreak on one end. Two pits, 4 inches diam by 6 inches deep, were dug in each plot using a golf course core. Each hole was then enclosed with 6- × 6-inch roof shingle, which was covered with aluminum foil to reflect the sun’s heat and maintain a moist shelter for the slugs. The pits were checked for slugs on the day of molluscicide applications and at 1 and 6 days posttreatment. On day 1 after molluscicide application, the number of dead slugs/3 m2 (1 m2 at 3 locations in the plot) was recorded for each plot.