Verbena plants are beautiful additions to gardens or patios, and they come in a variety of colors. These plants require minimal care and can thrive in various soils and weather conditions. However, one of the biggest threats to verbena plants is snails. These slimy pests can munch away at the leaves and flowers of the plant, causing significant damage. Fortunately, there are several methods you can use to get rid of snails on verbena plants.
Before you start treating your verbena plant for snails, it’s important to identify snail damage. Snails usually feed at night, so it may be difficult to catch them in the act. Look for the following signs:
If you notice any of these signs, it’s likely that snails are present on your verbena plant.
There are several natural methods you can use to get rid of snails on verbena plants.
One of the simplest ways to get rid of snails is to handpick them off your verbena plant. This method is best done at night when snails are most active. Wear gloves and a headlamp or use a flashlight to locate and remove snails from your plants.
Copper barriers can also be effective in repelling snails. Snails cannot tolerate copper, so placing a copper barrier around your verbena plant can prevent them from getting close. You can purchase copper tape or make your own using copper wire or tubing.
Crushed eggshells can also be used as a natural deterrent for snails. Sprinkle crushed eggshells around the base of your verbena plant to create a barrier that snails will not cross.
If natural methods are not effective in getting rid of snails on your verbena plant, you may need to use chemical treatments. It’s important to note that chemical treatments can harm beneficial insects, so use them as a last resort.
Iron phosphate is a common ingredient in snail baits that can be used to control snail populations. It is considered safe for use around pets and wildlife and will not harm beneficial insects.
Metaldehyde is another common ingredient in snail baits. This chemical is highly toxic and should be used with caution. It is not safe for use around pets or wildlife and can harm beneficial insects.
Preventing snail infestations is the best way to protect your verbena plant from snail damage.
Snails love to hide in debris, so it’s important to remove any fallen leaves or other debris from around your verbena plant.
Watering your plants in the morning can help prevent snails. Snails are most active at night, so watering your plants in the morning will give them time to dry out before snails become active.
Moisture attracts snails, so it’s important to keep your plants dry. Avoid overwatering and make sure there is proper drainage around your verbena plant.
Q: Are snails harmful to humans?
A: While snails are not harmful to humans, they can carry diseases that can be harmful if ingested. It’s best to avoid contact with snails and wash your hands after handling them.
Q: Will chemicals harm beneficial insects?
A: Yes, chemical treatments can harm beneficial insects. Use chemical treatments as a last resort and follow all instructions carefully.
Q: How can I prevent snails from coming back?
A: Regularly remove debris, water in the morning, and keep your plants dry to prevent snail infestations. You can also use natural methods like handpicking and copper barriers to repel snails.