Full explanation
Slugs are a critical pest of winter oilseed rape in Polissia and western Ukraine during wet autumns; in infested fields 30–60% of seedlings can be destroyed within 7–14 days. Granular baits: Slymex (metaldehyde 5%) at UAH 120–180/kg, Ferrox (ferric phosphate 3%) at UAH 180–260/kg [VERIFY]. Rate: 5–7 kg/ha broadcast or in field-edge strips. Ferric phosphate is non-toxic to mammals (LD50 >5,000 mg/kg) and permitted in organic production under DSTU 4520:2023 and EU Reg 2018/848. Metaldehyde has been restricted in the EU since 2025 (authorisation extended only to 2029 per the latest EFSA review). Alternatives: agronomic (deep stubble cultivation, rolling) and biological (Phasmarhabditis hermaphrodita — parasitic nematodes).