Commenting on the predicted invasion of slugs this season, Colin Wetherley-Mein - sales manager at Vitax, says:

“Slugs are going to be a huge problem for gardeners this year due to the mild winter and an increase in numbers.  As a manufacturer, we need to ensure we continue to have the right products to meet demand as gardeners look for effective, on-the-shelf solutions.

“Although gardeners are usually well prepared for an invasion, slug infestations are now becoming a year-round event which require long-term solutions.

“Demand for deterrents such as Slug Gone has increased during the first quarter and we expect this to continue.  As Slug Gone is made of natural, organic materials, it appeals to both organic and environmentally-conscious gardeners, but what is more important is that it is available to purchase.

“Over the past year, Vitax has widened its distribution network which means Slug Gone is available in more garden centres and nurseries than before.

“However, it is not just natural solutions like Slug Gone which have seen an increase in demand.  Both Slug Rid and Slug Tape are also doing well.  The fact is, slugs can destroy months of hard work in a matter of hours and we have to ensure our customers have products on the shelf.

“No one solution fits all. Gardeners need to be savvy and determine which solution suits them best for the long term. If used correctly, products like Slug Gone can provide a barrier for months.”

For more information about Vitax, visit: www.vitax.co.uk

Meanwhile, Wyevale Garden Centres  is warning the gardeners of Britain to prepare for an increase of supersized slugs this spring.

Duncan McLean, Buyer for Growing Media and Garden Nourish & Control at Wyevale Garden Centres says: “Thanks to another unseasonably wet and mild winter with few hard frosts, our slugs simply haven’t hibernated as they usually do. They’re grazing constantly on prematurely budding plants, getting larger and larger in the process (up to 40 times their body weight), whilst also having the time to breed more, adding to existing colonies and spelling disaster for our gardens.”

He added; “We are always looking for new, innovative and effective products. This year we have a new, first to market product exclusive to Wyevale Garden Centres, Sluggo Slug and Snail Killer Ultra, which is twice as potent as the current ferric phosphate pellet. It is biodegradable and will not harm children, pets or wildlife when used as directed, it contains ferric phosphate, an active ingredient occurring in nature which biodegrades into Iron and phosphate benefitting the soil. We also advise on other management methods including the re-siting of slugs in non residential areas at a distance from your garden.”

Wyevale Garden Centres has noticed a 33% increase in sales year on year in the sale of ‘friendly’ slug and snail deterrents, such as slug wool and ferric phosphate products. The growth in early season purchase also indicates that gardeners are becoming better prepared; after all, prevention is better than cure.