Slugs & Snails

What it looks like

Irregular, ragged holes in leaves or turf edges rather than clean cuts. Look for shiny silvery slime trails in the early morning, which are the giveaway sign. Damage tends to be worst in shaded, moist areas with heavy thatch or mulch.

Often mistaken for: Caterpillar or beetle chewing damage

When it shows up in the Triangle

Shows up during cool, damp stretches in spring and fall. Most active at night and in the early morning hours.

Where you’ll see it

Home lawns and shaded, moist landscape areas with thatch or mulch nearby.

What you can do

• Cut back on excess moisture near turf edges and beds
• Reduce thatch buildup in the lawn
• Pull mulch or debris away from turf edges where slugs hide
• Water lawns in the morning instead of evening so surfaces dry out overnight
• Hand-pick slugs when you spot them
• Set out simple beer traps for light problems