The Metaldehyde Stewardship Group has recently provided its latest guidance, regarding the use of slug pellets:
• Use the minimum active per hectare to avoid drainage and run off losses
• No pellets to be applied within 6 m of a water course or ditch
• Maximum single application of 210g/ha (or 160g/ha where BASIS qualified advice has been given)
• Maximum total does rate – as above
• Maximum total does rate of 700g per calender year
• Don’t pellet when heavy rainfall is forecast
• Don’t apply metaldehyde when the field drains are flowing.
The slug is a key problem during the germination and establishment of the crop. Farmers need to ensure that they have measures in place to actively manage control of the pellets, not only through timing of pellet application but also within seedbed preparation and cultivation techniques.
For more information, or assistance with this matter, please contact Jon Stables on 01536 532378 or on jon.stables@berrybros.com.
