How to Get Rid of Snails on Coleus Plant

Coleus plants are known for their vibrant leaves that come in shades of green, purple, pink, and red. They are easy to care for and can be grown both indoors and outdoors. However, one of the most common problems faced by coleus plant owners is snail infestation.

Snails can be a real nuisance for coleus plants. They feed on the leaves and can cause significant damage if not dealt with promptly. In this article, we will discuss various methods to get rid of snails on coleus plants.

Identify Snail Infestation

Before we dive into the methods to get rid of snails, it’s essential to identify whether your coleus plant is infested with snails or not. Here are some signs that indicate snail infestation:

• Irregular holes in the leaves
• Shredded or jagged leaves
• Silvery slime trails on the leaves or soil
• Presence of snails around the plant or in the soil

If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to take action.

Natural Methods to Get Rid of Snails

There are several natural methods that you can use to get rid of snails on your coleus plant. Here are a few:

Handpicking

The most traditional method of getting rid of snails is by handpicking them off your coleus plant. You can do this at night when snails are most active. Wear gloves and use a flashlight if needed. Collect all the snails you find and dispose of them in a sealed container.

Copper Tape

Snails dislike copper, so using copper tape around the base of your coleus plant can deter them. The tape should be at least two inches wide and should be placed around the pot or soil where the plant is growing.

Eggshells

Crushed eggshells around your coleus plant can also deter snails. The sharp edges of the eggshells irritate the snails, and they avoid crawling over them.

Chemical Methods to Get Rid of Snails

If natural methods are not working or you have a severe infestation, you may need to resort to chemical methods. Here are a few options:

Iron Phosphate

Iron phosphate is a safe and effective pesticide that targets snails and slugs. It is available in pellet form, which can be scattered around your coleus plant. The snails will eat it and eventually die.

Metaldehyde

Metaldehyde is another pesticide that targets snails and slugs. It comes in the form of pellets or liquid bait that can be placed around your coleus plant. However, this pesticide is toxic to pets and wildlife, so use it with caution.

Preventing Snail Infestation

Preventing snail infestation is better than dealing with it after it has occurred. Here are some tips to prevent snail infestation on your coleus plant:

• Water your plant in the morning to avoid creating a damp environment that snails love.
• Keep the area around your plant clean and free of debris.
• Use a well-draining soil mix to prevent waterlogging.
• Avoid over-fertilizing your coleus plant as this can attract snails.
• Use companion planting to repel snails. Plants like lavender, rosemary, and sage are known to deter snails.

FAQ

Can snails harm my coleus plant?

Yes, snails can cause significant damage to your coleus plant by feeding on the leaves.

Are natural methods effective in getting rid of snails?

Natural methods can be effective if you catch the infestation early on. Handpicking and using copper tape or eggshells can deter snails.

Are chemical methods safe for my coleus plant?

Yes, chemical methods like iron phosphate are safe for your coleus plant. However, metaldehyde is toxic to pets and wildlife, so use it with caution.

How can I prevent snail infestation on my coleus plant?

Water your plant in the morning, keep the area around your plant clean, use well-draining soil mix, avoid over-fertilizing, and use companion planting to repel snails.