Yes, slugs can be killed.
Several methods can be used to kill slugs, ranging from physical removal to the use of chemical and organic treatments. One common approach involves slug pellets containing ferric phosphate.
How Ferric Phosphate Slug Pellets Work:
- Mechanism of Action: Ferric phosphate damages the digestive tissue of slugs.
- Effect: Affected slugs stop eating and typically die within 2 to 4 days.
- Safety: Ferric phosphate is generally considered safe for humans, pets, and other wildlife, even if they ingest the pellets or affected slugs.
Other Methods to Kill Slugs:
While the provided reference focuses on ferric phosphate pellets, it's important to note other available methods:
- Physical Removal: Handpicking slugs and disposing of them (e.g., in soapy water) can be effective in smaller gardens.
- Barriers: Creating barriers with copper tape or diatomaceous earth can deter slugs.
- Traps: Beer traps are a popular method, attracting slugs which then drown in the liquid.
- Nematodes: Certain types of nematodes are parasitic to slugs and can be used as a biological control method.
In summary, multiple methods are available to effectively kill slugs, each with varying levels of effectiveness and environmental impact. Ferric phosphate pellets offer a relatively safe and efficient solution.
