How to Get Rid of Snails on Hummingbird Lunch Plant

Snails can be a nuisance when they invade your garden, especially if you have plants that attract hummingbirds. These small creatures are not only destructive to your plants but can also deter hummingbirds from visiting your garden. If you are dealing with snails on your hummingbird lunch plant, fret not! In this article, we will discuss effective methods to get rid of snails and protect your plants.

Understanding the Problem

Before we delve into the solutions, let’s understand why snails are attracted to your hummingbird lunch plant. Snails are primarily attracted to plants that provide them with a moist environment and ample food supply. Hummingbird lunch plants, such as bee balm, cardinal flower, and salvia, have nectar-rich flowers that attract both hummingbirds and snails.

Snails are particularly active during the night and on cloudy or damp days. They leave behind slimy trails on leaves and flowers, which can be unsightly and damaging to the plant. Snails feed on the leaves, stems, and flowers of your hummingbird lunch plant, causing stunted growth and even death of the plant if left unchecked.

Natural Methods to Get Rid of Snails

If you prefer natural methods to eliminate snails from your garden, here are a few tactics you can try:

1. Handpicking

Handpicking is one of the most straightforward methods to remove snails from your plants. Simply go out into your garden during the early morning or late evening when snails are most active. Pick them off by hand and dispose of them in a bucket of soapy water. This method requires patience and consistency but can be highly effective for smaller infestations.

2. Beer Traps

Snails are attracted to the smell of beer, making beer traps an effective way to lure and trap them. Dig a small hole near your hummingbird lunch plant and bury a container, such as a yogurt cup, up to its rim. Fill the container with beer, which will attract the snails. The snails will crawl into the container and drown in the beer. Empty and refill the traps regularly to maintain their effectiveness.

3. Copper Barriers

Snails dislike copper, so creating a barrier around your plants can deter them from reaching your hummingbird lunch plant. Use copper tape or copper wire to create a ring around the base of the plant or install copper flashing along the edges of raised beds or containers. When snails come into contact with the copper, it gives them a mild electric shock, deterring them from climbing over it.

4. Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth is a natural substance made from fossilized remains of diatoms. It is abrasive to snails and slugs, causing them to dehydrate and eventually die. Sprinkle diatomaceous earth around the base of your hummingbird lunch plant, creating a barrier that snails will avoid. Make sure to reapply after rain or watering, as it can lose its effectiveness when wet.

5. Natural Predators

Introducing natural predators of snails, such as ducks or chickens, can help control their population in your garden. Ducks and chickens enjoy eating snails and can help keep their numbers in check. However, this method may not be suitable for everyone, especially if you have a small garden or live in an urban area with restrictions on keeping poultry.

Chemical Methods to Get Rid of Snails

If natural methods are not providing satisfactory results, using chemical methods may be necessary. However, it is important to use chemical controls responsibly and selectively:

1. Iron Phosphate-Based Baits

Iron phosphate-based baits are considered safer alternatives to traditional chemical pesticides. These baits are attractive to snails and slugs, causing them to ingest the iron phosphate. Once consumed, the iron phosphate disrupts their digestive system, leading to their eventual death. Follow the product instructions carefully and apply the bait around your hummingbird lunch plant. Be cautious not to overapply, as it can be harmful to beneficial insects.

2. Metaldehyde-Based Baits

Metaldehyde-based baits are effective in killing snails but should be used with caution due to their toxicity to pets and wildlife. If you choose to use metaldehyde-based baits, follow the product instructions carefully and place them strategically around your garden. Keep in mind that metaldehyde can persist in the environment, so use it sparingly and only when necessary.

Preventive Measures

Preventing snail infestations is key to maintaining a healthy garden. Here are some preventive measures you can take:

• Remove debris and leaf litter from your garden regularly, as they provide hiding places for snails.
• Water your plants in the morning, allowing them to dry during the day. Snails prefer moist environments, so reducing excess moisture can discourage their presence.
• Avoid over-fertilizing your plants, as this can promote lush growth that is more attractive to snails.
• Regularly inspect your plants for early signs of snail damage and take action promptly before the population grows.

By implementing these preventive measures and using the appropriate methods to get rid of snails on your hummingbird lunch plant, you can ensure a thriving garden that not only attracts hummingbirds but also remains free from unwanted pests. Happy gardening!