I once coated a pepper seedling in diatomaceous earth...the next day a
slug had eaten it. The stuff is useless, especially in damp weather. Get
Escar-Go, or Sluggo...both are different brand names for the same
product, iron phosphate covered in a yeasty bait. Very safe, even around
veggies....and more effective than metaldehyde baits...although the damp
weather we've been having allows the slugs to outcompete any treatment.
I buy mine from Gardens Alive, but its also sold by Planet Natural. Take
care, Eric Muehlbauer in Queens NY....very cold and damp!