Growers will be able to buy methiocarb slug pellets until 19 September 2014, and have until 19 September 2015 to use up stocks, the EU Commission has said.

While still subject to final confirmation by the UK regulatory authority, the Chemicals Regulation Directorate, publication of the dates in the Official Journal of the European Union brings some certainty for the industry. EU Member States voted to withdraw approval for all methiocarb slug pellets, including Draza Forte and Decoy Wetex, in December 2013.

“This is in line with our expectations, and will allow potato and other high value crop growers at least one more season of using methiocarb as their front-line defence against slugs,” says Peter Stacey, the firm’s molluscicides manager.

The ruling does not affect other uses of methiocarb such as in seed treatments (Mesurol).