Posted by Linda Lobb on October 22, 2005

Q: In a bag of loose, dry potting soil that has been open for several weeks, I found a small mass - approx. 1 inch in diameter - of gelatinous eggs(?). They are clear, soft, approx. 3/16 inch in diameter and there are about 12-18 in the mass which is loosely stuck together. They separate easily, but there doesn't appear to be anything inside except clear to yellowish jelly-like material. I rinsed them in filtered water and they separated easily with no attachment between them. I sacrificed one of them and punctured the outside. It required moderate pressure and there was a soft pop. I have used dirt from this bag several times over the summer and had never found anything like this. I am certain it isn't an additive to the soil or anything that is supposed to be there. I try to nurture creatures in my yard even when they are unappealing. I once found a large black widow with three egg sacs. I gathered them into a jar and drove them 11 miles away and released them into a rural, uninhabited area. I have several (up to 9) garden spiders in my yard every year that I protect. I don't want to destroy these 'eggs' but I am not comfortable not knowing what they are since I am using the soil for plants that will be brought in the house for winter. Thanks!

State: Tennessee

Habitat: suburban/yard

A: From your description, I think you've uncovered some slug eggs. I've had these in my garden and found them beneath the soil. No doubt, a slug has gotten into your bag of soil and found it suitable for laying its eggs. I'm not positive about this ID so you may want to keep an eye on them and see what happens. I'm not sure whether they'll hatch yet this fall or in the spring.

Nice to hear that you're so considerate of wildlife even when it may be "unappealing". I think one of our most important goals is to realize that all of nature works together as a whole and we need to accept it ALL.

Thanks for your question.

John Wiessinger ( October 23, 2005)