How to Get Rid of Snails on Goldfish Plant

Goldfish plants (Nematanthus spp.) are beautiful and easy-to-grow houseplants that produce vibrant flowers. However, they are not immune to pests, and one of the most common problems is snail infestation. Snails can damage your goldfish plant by feeding on its leaves and stems, leaving unsightly holes and trails. In this article, we will discuss how to get rid of snails on goldfish plants.

Identify the Snails

Before you start treating your goldfish plant for snails, it’s important to identify the type of snails that are causing the problem. Most often, snails found on indoor plants are garden snails (Helix aspersa). These snails are usually brown or gray and have a pointed spiral shell. They are active at night and hide during the day.

Another common species is the greenhouse snail (Otala lactea). These snails are light brown and have a wider shell than garden snails. They are also nocturnal and feed on plant foliage.

Remove Snails Manually

The first step in getting rid of snails on your goldfish plant is to remove them manually. Look for snails on the leaves, stems, and soil surface, especially at night when they are most active. Wear gloves and pick off any visible snails. You can also use a damp cloth or paper towel to wipe them off.

Use Traps

Snail traps can be an effective way to reduce the number of snails in your goldfish plant. You can make a simple trap by placing a shallow dish filled with beer near your plant. The smell of beer attracts snails, and they will crawl into the dish and drown.

Alternatively, you can use a trap made of cardboard or wood. Place the trap near your goldfish plant and leave it overnight. The snails will crawl into the trap to escape the light and heat, and you can dispose of them in the morning.

Apply Natural Repellents

Natural repellents are a safe and effective way to keep snails away from your goldfish plant. You can use coffee grounds, eggshells, or diatomaceous earth to create a barrier around your plant. Snails don’t like the texture of these materials and will avoid them.

You can also apply a solution of vinegar and water to your goldfish plant. Mix equal parts of vinegar and water in a spray bottle and spray it on the leaves and stems of your plant. This will repel snails without harming your goldfish plant.

Use Chemical Repellents

If natural repellents don’t work, you can use chemical repellents to get rid of snails on your goldfish plant. There are many commercial products available that are designed to repel snails and slugs. These products contain chemicals such as iron phosphate or metaldehyde.

However, it’s important to follow the instructions carefully when using chemical repellents. Some chemicals can be harmful to pets and wildlife, so make sure to apply them safely.

FAQ

Can snails kill my goldfish plant?

Snails can damage your goldfish plant by feeding on its leaves and stems, but they rarely kill the plant.

Are snails harmful to humans?

Snails can carry diseases such as rat lungworm, which can be harmful to humans if ingested. It’s important to wash your hands after handling snails.

How often should I check my goldfish plant for snails?

It’s a good idea to check your goldfish plant for snails every few days, especially if you have seen them before. Snails can multiply quickly, so early detection is key.

How can I prevent snail infestation on my goldfish plant?

To prevent snail infestation, keep your goldfish plant healthy and avoid overwatering. Snails are attracted to moist environments. You can also place copper tape around the base of your plant. Snails don’t like the texture of copper and will avoid it.