Why autumn applications of Nemaslug are essential for spring slug control

Slug damage continues to take a heavy toll on UK gardens, with many green-fingered enthusiasts facing the frustration of ruined vegetables, shredded ornamental plants, and failed seedlings year after year. Whether you're growing in containers, raised beds, allotments or traditional borders, slugs remain one of the most persistent and destructive garden pests.

Their damage is often underestimated until it’s too late. Slugs can decimate young crops overnight, targeting tender growth when plants are at their most vulnerable. That’s why long-term, preventative slug control is vital for gardeners looking to protect their hard work. And one of the most effective, natural defences available is Nemaslug® 2.0, a biological slug control that works in harmony with nature and delivers results below the soil surface, where the real damage begins.

Why autumn is a key time

Slugs remain active well into the cooler months and continue laying eggs until soil temperatures drop below 5ºC. By applying Nemaslug 2.0 in autumn, gardeners can target both adult slugs and reduce the number of viable eggs in the soil - halting next spring’s population before it starts.

This final seasonal application offers:

• Early season protection for emerging seedlings and young plants
• Longer-term control by breaking the slug lifecycle
• Peace of mind knowing your garden is defended naturally ahead of the winter

How it works

Nemaslug contains millions of Phasmarhabditis nematodes - microscopic, soil-dwelling organisms that naturally target slugs. Once applied to moist soil, the nematodes seek out slugs, enter their bodies, and release bacteria that quickly kill the host. The nematodes then multiply inside the dead slug and spread out to find more prey, continuing the cycle of protection. Once their food source is exhausted, the nematodes naturally decline to background levels making them an environmentally responsible option for any garden.

Unlike pellets or chemical sprays, Nemaslug remains effective during the wet autumn months. It works in harmony with nature, causing no risk to pets, wildlife, bees, or birds and because it’s applied to the soil, it targets slugs where they live, not just where they feed – an approach unique to beneficial nematodes.

Added benefits of autumn use:

• Soil health is maintained, with no chemical residues or runoff
• Perfect for no-dig and organic gardens
• Ideal for raised beds, greenhouses, and ornamental borders
• Delivered fresh to your door with simple instructions

Join the growing movement of gardeners choosing biological control

With more consumers turning to sustainable gardening methods, nematode-based controls like Nemaslug 2.0 are leading the way in pesticide-free, effective plant protection. It’s an easy win for garden biodiversity and a strong line of defence for next year’s garden.

Watch how nematodes work in this short video: https://youtu.be/JHNG1KSluh0

To learn more about Nemaslug 2.0, visit: www.nemasysinfo.co.uk

Ends

Editors notes

Nematodes are naturally occurring microscopic worms, already present in our soil. Beneficial nematodes attack and kill targeted garden pests. They are compatible with organic farming, easy to use and can even be kept in your fridge!

Research scientists have isolated the nematodes that kill specific garden pests including Slugs, Vine weevils, Leatherjackets, Caterpillars, Codling moth and much more.

BASF’s state of the art production facility in the UK produces billions of nematodes in a form that is easily applied by gardeners. Over 20,000 different species of nematodes have been classified, although some estimates put the total figure closer to one million! BASF has the largest specialist nematode production facility in the world, growing trillions of beneficial nematodes for use in their Nemasys range of pest control products.

BASF experts are available for interviews, features and expert comment on biological pest control management, and product is available for reviews, competitions and product trials.