15th March 2007
SLOGGY® – a new molluscicide from Interfarm
Interfarm UK Ltd is launching a new molluscicide Sloggy
to the UK market. Based on the well-known active ingredient
metaldehyde, Sloggy is a durum-based wet extruded 2.5 mm
pellet which is specifically active on all species of slugs
and snails in outdoor and protected crops.
“Slugs are the number one pest in UK arable crops,
causing problems of establishment, severe crop grazing and
even total crop loss. Slug pellets are an essential tool
in an integrated programme which should also include seedbed
preparation, correct sowing depths, risk assessment, trapping
(but not with slug pellets) and crop monitoring. Once appropriate
cultural methods to reduce risk have been used and the need
for treatment assessed, the next step is to apply a good
quality pellet just after drilling”, advises Dr. David
Stormonth, Technical Manager for Interfarm UK Ltd.
“What makes a good slug pellet is the active ingredient,
of course, but the formulation is just as important. Sloggy
is made to a consistent and high standard in a dedicated
modern plant by SBM Developpement in Bezier, France. Its
wet-extruded pellets are manufactured to a consistent size
and shape, giving it excellent ballistic properties needed
for wide and even spread of at least 18 metres. It is made
from top quality durum wheat which gives it excellent rainfastness
and long-lasting integrity in the field, even in wet conditions.
It also shows a low physical break down rate comparable
to, or even better than, other high quality products,”
says David.
“Containing 5% metaldehyde, Sloggy is specifically
targeted at slugs and is safe to earthworms, carabid beetles,
other beneficials and mammals. In addition Sloggy contains
an olfactory repellent which deters non-target species,”
points out Dr. Stormonth.
Sloggy should be applied at a dose rate of up to a maximum
of 8 kg/ha, providing up to 50 pellets per square metre,
when the ground is bare up to post-emergence of the crop,
as soon as slugs are active in the field or the crop is
identified to be at risk. The product can be used in all
agricultural and horticultural crops, both outdoor and protected.
“From the practical view point, Sloggy is a non-dusty
preparation and contains a biocide to prevent mould. It
is packed in a 10 kg strong damp-proof non-plastic pack
for ease of transport, storage and use. It is exempt from
transport regulations and its packaging can be treated as
paper/cardboard farm waste,” says Dr. Stormonth.
Speaking on behalf of the manufacturer, SBM’s Chief
Executive, Jean-Paul Simmler said “After carrying
out many field trials in the UK which demonstrate the value
of Sloggy, we are very pleased to begin a new co-operation
with Interfarm and look forward to a successful commercial
launch.” Sloggy is available from Interfarm’s
network of distributors across the UK.
For further comment and information, please contact Dr.
David Stormonth, Technical Manager, Interfarm (UK) Ltd.
on 01354 741414 or 07818 036506 (mobile).
SLOGGY® is a trademark of SBM Developpement.
