How to Use Compo Bio Anti-Slak (Anti-Limaces): A Step-by-Step Guide

Compo Bio Anti-Slak, also known as Compo Bio Anti-Limaces, is a biological slug and snail bait (primarily targeting slugs, or "limaces" in French) made with a natural active ingredient. It's designed for organic gardening and is safe for use around vegetables, fruits, ornamental plants, herbs, balcony, and terrace plants. The granules attract slugs, which stop feeding after consumption, retreat into the soil, and die without leaving visible dead bodies or mucus trails. It's rain- and mold-resistant, harmless to beneficial insects (like spiders), pets, and wildlife (such as hedgehogs), and has no waiting period before harvesting crops.

This product is approved for organic farming and is available in sizes like 400g, 500g, 1kg, or 2kg. Always read the product label for the most up-to-date instructions, as formulations may vary by region (e.g., it's commonly sold in Europe, including Belgium and France). Below is a beginner-friendly guide based on official usage recommendations.

Step 1: Identify the Problem and Prepare

• Assess the Infestation: Look for signs of slug damage, such as holes in leaves, slime trails, or missing seedlings, especially on young plants like lettuce, hostas, asters, or strawberries. This product works best on slugs but may also affect snails ("escargots").
• Choose the Right Time: Apply in the evening or at night when slugs are most active, or during humid, overcast weather. It's ideal for preventive use right after planting young, vulnerable plants or curatively when damage first appears.
• Gather Supplies: You'll need the granules, gloves (for handling), and optionally a spreader or spoon for even distribution. No mixing is required—it's ready-to-use.
• Safety First: Keep out of reach of children and pets. Wash hands after use. Do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling. Store in a cool, dry place in its original container.

Step 2: Calculate the Dosage

• Recommended Rate: Use 5 grams per square meter (about 200–250 granules per m²). This covers an area of roughly 80–100 m² per 400g pack, depending on infestation level.
• For Specific Applications:
• Around Individual Plants: Sprinkle a small ring or pile (about 5–10g) around the base of each plant, maintaining a 7–8 cm distance between granules to create a barrier.
• Larger Areas (Garden or Greenhouse): Spread evenly over the soil surface near vulnerable plants.
• Heavy Infestation: In cases of severe slug activity, the granules may be fully consumed overnight, so double the rate initially if needed, but do not exceed label limits.
• Tip: For balconies or pots, use sparingly—focus on the soil surface around plants. One to four applications may be needed per season, spaced 1–2 weeks apart or as required.

Step 3: Apply the Granules

• Method:
1. Shake the container well to ensure even distribution of granules.
2. Wear gloves and protective clothing if handling large amounts.
3. Scatter the granules evenly on the soil around plants, avoiding direct contact with foliage to prevent any residue. Do not pile them too closely at the plant base, as slugs move at night and may bypass small piles—spread in a barrier for better efficacy.
4. For rows of crops (e.g., vegetables), apply along the row edges.
5. In greenhouses or covered areas, ensure good ventilation.
• Environmental Precautions: Maintain a 1-meter buffer zone from water bodies (ponds, streams) to avoid pollution. Do not apply if heavy rain is expected immediately, though the product is weather-resistant. It's safe for use in organic gardens but avoid overuse to protect soil health.
• Tip: Apply immediately after planting or watering, as moist soil attracts slugs. Reapply after heavy rain if granules dissolve or are washed away.

Step 4: Monitor and Reapply

• Observe Results: Slugs should stop feeding within hours and die within 3–7 days, retreating underground. You won't see dead slugs or extra slime—plants will simply show less damage.
• Check Effectiveness: Inspect plants after 3–5 days. If damage persists, reapply at the recommended rate. In high-infestation areas, check daily and reapply as needed (up to 4 times per season).
• Integrated Pest Management: Combine with non-chemical methods like beer traps, copper barriers, or encouraging natural predators (e.g., birds, frogs) for long-term control. Remove debris or mulch that harbors slugs.

Step 5: Clean Up and Storage

• Post-Application: Rinse any tools or containers. Dispose of empty packaging according to local regulations (e.g., recycle if possible, but do not contaminate water).
• Storage: Close the container tightly after use and store in a dry, inaccessible place. Shelf life is typically 2–3 years if stored properly.
• Safety Note: Follow all label warnings to avoid risks to health or the environment. If accidentally ingested or if irritation occurs, seek medical advice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Over-Application: Stick to the dosage to prevent waste and potential harm to non-target organisms.
• Poor Timing: Applying during dry daytime reduces effectiveness, as slugs are nocturnal.
• Ignoring Buffers: Always respect distances from water to comply with environmental rules.
• Not Reapplying: In wet or infested areas, granules can be consumed quickly, so monitor closely.

Additional Tips

• Where to Buy: Available at garden centers like Staragros or online via Compo's website. Check for regional availability (e.g., in Europe).
• Effectiveness: Works best in cool, moist conditions (common in spring/fall). For severe outbreaks, consider consulting a local gardening expert.
• Eco-Friendly Aspect: As a bio product, it's a great alternative to chemical baits, but rotates with other methods to avoid resistance.