How to Get Rid of Snails on Fig Plant

Fig plants are a beloved fruit tree for many gardeners. However, one common problem that the plant faces is the presence of snails. Snails can damage the fig plant by munching on the leaves and fruits, and if left unchecked, they can destroy the entire plant. But getting rid of snails from your fig plant doesn’t have to be a daunting task. In this article, we’ll discuss some effective ways to get rid of snails on fig plants.

Identify the Snail’s Habitat

Before you start getting rid of snails, it’s important to identify their habitat. Typically, snails thrive in damp and humid environments. Therefore, it’s important to eliminate these conditions around your fig plant. Remove any debris or mulch near the plant and ensure that there is proper drainage.

Use Natural Predators

One effective way to get rid of snails is by introducing natural predators into your garden. Animals such as ducks, chickens, and frogs are known to feed on snails. If you don’t have access to these animals, you can also attract them into your garden by providing a suitable habitat. For example, by having a pond in your garden, you can attract frogs which will naturally feed on snails.

Handpicking

Handpicking is an easy and effective way to get rid of snails from your fig plant. Simply go out at night with a flashlight and pick them off one by one. This may seem tedious, but it’s a great way to keep an eye on how many snails are present in your garden.

Copper Tape or Mesh

Copper tape or mesh is a great way to keep snails away from your fig plant. The copper creates an electric charge when it comes into contact with the slime that snails produce. This charge repels the snail and prevents them from crawling onto your fig plant. Simply place the tape or mesh around the base of your fig plant to create a barrier.

Beer Traps

Another effective way to get rid of snails is by using beer traps. Snails are attracted to the yeast in beer and will crawl into the trap, where they will eventually drown. To make a beer trap, simply bury a container filled with beer near your fig plant. Ensure that the top of the container is level with the soil surface, and empty it regularly.

Commercial Snail Baits

If all else fails, you can turn to commercial snail baits. These baits contain an ingredient called metaldehyde which is toxic to snails. However, it’s important to use these baits sparingly and follow the instructions carefully. Metaldehyde is also toxic to other wildlife such as birds and hedgehogs, so it’s important to use it responsibly.

Getting rid of snails from your fig plant may seem like a daunting task, but with these effective methods, you can ensure that your plant thrives.

FAQ

How do I prevent snails from coming back?

To prevent snails from coming back, ensure that you remove any debris or mulch near your fig plant and maintain proper drainage. You can also introduce natural predators into your garden or use copper tape or mesh to keep them away.

How do I know if my fig plant has a snail problem?

If you notice chewed leaves or fruits on your fig plant, this may be a sign of a snail problem. You may also notice slime trails around the base of your plant.

Are commercial snail baits safe for pets?

Commercial snail baits contain metaldehyde which is toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. It’s important to keep these baits out of reach of pets and follow the instructions carefully.