How to get rid of snails in potted plants

Snails are considered to be one of the most common garden pests around the world. One of the places where they love to hangout is potted plants. They can damage both the leaves and fruits of the plant. Fortunately, there are several steps that can be taken to get rid of them quickly and efficiently. In this article, we will discuss some of the effective ways to eliminate snails from your potted plants.

Identify the type of snail

Before taking any action, it is essential to identify the type of snail that is causing damage to your potted plants. Different types of snails have different sensitivity levels to various treatments. Some types of snails may require special kinds of treatment for their eradication. Therefore, it is essential to know the species before selecting a treatment.

Natural remedies

Natural remedies are both safe and effective ways to get rid of snails in your potted plants. For instance, the use of a copper tape on the plant pots can be of great help. Snails do not like the shock they get from touching the copper tape. Additionally, if you place used coffee grounds around your plant, they can be extremely unpleasant for snails. The rough texture of the grounds can act as a barrier to prevent the snails from crawling up the plant.

Slug Bait

Slug bait is one of the most effective ways to get rid of snails from potted plants. The best approach is to use a bait that contains Iron Phosphate. This active ingredient works by killing the snail slowly, over time. This method is considered safer compared to other baits that contain toxic chemicals. Additionally, it doesn't harm beneficial insects or other wildlife in the garden.

Handpicking

Handpicking removes snails from the potted plants manually. This method is suitable for people who have a small garden or a few potted plants. A pair of tongs or gloves may be used in picking up the snails, and they should be disposed of responsibly. Handpicking can be an affordable yet time-consuming method of getting rid of the snails in potted plants.

Insecticides

Insecticides can be used to eliminate snails from potted plants. However, it is essential to note that some insecticides can be toxic to humans, pets, and wildlife. Therefore, it is essential to read the product labels to ensure that the ingredients are safe. Furthermore, selecting an insecticide that is formulated for snails specifically is crucial. Lastly, follow the instructions on the label to avoid overuse or misuse.

Conclusion

Snails can be a pain to deal with when they infiltrate your potted plants. The good news is that there are several ways to get rid of them naturally and safely. Identifying the species of snail, using natural remedies, handpicking, slug bait, and insecticides are some of the ways to eliminate snails from your potted plants. By following one or a combination of these methods, you can get rid of snails and protect your plants.