I have vegetable plants planted inflowerpots but the snails are having a good ti

1. 84

   peachpurpleposted 10 years ago

   I have vegetable plants planted inflowerpots but the snails are having a good time chewing them up.
   
   How do I reduce this pest?  I heard egg shells are helpful

   replyreport
2. 65

   eugbugposted 10 years ago

   If you don't believe in using chemicals which are usually metaldehyde based products, another option is to use beer in shallow saucers and let them drink themselves to death. Alternatively go out with a torch after dark when the snails are starting out on their slimy travels. Collect them in a bucket and dispose of humanely or inhumanely. Eventually the population will be decimated. You can also search for them in their hiding places during the day, typically under or behind pots, containers, rocks, bricks, window sills etc. If you've added any stones or similar at the bottom of flower pots to prevent the drainage holes from being blocked and a cavity is formed, they can hide in there also.

   replyreport
   1. 84

      peachpurpleposted 10 years agoin reply to this

      thanks for the tips, i should be hunting for their hide outs

      replyreport
3. 96

   peeplesposted 10 years ago

   Put sand around your flower pots. Egg shells can also be a good option. If you are ok with a less humane option put a ring of salt in a circle about 1-2 inches from the base of the pot.

   replyreport
   1. 84

      peachpurpleposted 10 years agoin reply to this

      thanks, I would try the salt

      replyreport
4. 73

   Stacie Lposted 10 years ago

   I have used the beer technique as well and have another way to stop them. Sprinkle salt; make sure it's the course type and they will avoid it because it burns them. That's may sound cruel but they have to learn to stat  away from things that hurt. Just like children who touch the hot stove and learn not to, the snails will either learn or die trying.

   replyreport
5. 83

   Pollyanna Jonesposted 10 years ago

   You can get a roll of copper tape with a sticky back to it. If you put this around the top of a flower pot, it deters snails and slugs and keeps them off your plants. It's not cheap, but it's worth a try, as it's organic and you won't be killing anything when you use it.

   replyreport
   1. 84

      peachpurpleposted 10 years agoin reply to this

      can i use a double sided tape?

      replyreport