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.
Interfarm UK Ltd., Kingham's Place, 36 Newgate Street, Doddington, Cambridgeshire PE15 0SR
Tel: 01354 741414 Fax: 01354 741004 e-mail:sales@interfarm.co.uk www.interfarm.co.uk
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).
