Introduction

Plant pots are a great way to grow small plants indoors or in balconies. However, snails can be a big problem as they love to nibble on leaves, flowers, and even the stem of plants. If left unchecked, snails can kill your plants. In this article, we will discuss how to stop snails from getting into plant pots and harming your plants.

Identify the types of snails

Before we start discussing how to keep snails away from your plants, it is important to identify the types of snails you are dealing with. In general, there are two types of snails that are commonly found in plant pots: land snails and aquatic snails. Land snails are those that crawl on land and can climb up plant pots. Aquatic snails, on the other hand, are those that live in water and can enter pots that have standing water or a moist environment.

Remove snails physically

The easiest way to get rid of snails is to remove them physically. You can either use your own hands, a pair of gloves, or a small scoop. Remember to dispose of the snails properly, as they can crawl back into the pots if they are just thrown into the garden. It is advisable to do this early in the morning or late in the evening as this is when snails are most active.

Use natural repellents

If you prefer a more natural approach, there are several home remedies that can keep snails at bay. These can be easily made with ingredients that are commonly found in your kitchen. Some natural repellents include crushed eggshells, coffee grounds, garlic, and vinegar. These have a strong odor and taste that snails find unpleasant. Sprinkle the repellents around the pots or create a barrier around the pots to deter snails from entering.

Sprinkle diatomaceous earth

Diatomaceous earth is made from fossilized diatoms and is an effective snail repellent. It works by dehydrating the snails, causing them to die. Sprinkle a thin layer of diatomaceous earth on the soil around the plant pots. Be careful not to over-apply, as excessive use can affect the soil's acidity and harm the plants.

Introduce predators

Another effective way to keep snails away from your plants is to introduce natural predators such as ducks or chickens. These animals love to eat snails and will keep the snail population in check. However, this may not be a feasible solution for everyone, especially those who live in an urban setting.

Avoid overwatering

Since aquatic snails thrive in moist environments, it is best to avoid overwatering your plants. Make sure that the soil is dry to the touch before watering again. You can also use a pot with a drainage hole to prevent standing water. This will help control the population of aquatic snails and prevent them from entering your plant pots.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are several methods that you can employ to keep snails away from your plant pots. You can remove snails physically, use natural repellents, sprinkle diatomaceous earth, introduce predators, and avoid overwatering. By following these tips, you can protect your plants from snails and ensure that they grow healthy and strong.