How to Get Rid of Snails on Jade Succulent Plant

Snails can be a nuisance for any gardener, especially when they start munching on your precious plants. If you have a jade succulent plant and are struggling with snail infestation, worry not! In this article, we will discuss effective methods to get rid of snails and protect your jade succulent.

Understanding Snail Behavior

Before we delve into the various methods to eliminate snails, it is important to understand their behavior. Snails are nocturnal creatures that come out at night to feed on plants. They leave behind slimy trails and can cause significant damage to your jade succulent by chewing on its leaves and stems.

Snails are attracted to moist environments, so if you have overwatered your jade succulent or have poor drainage in the pot, it becomes an ideal breeding ground for these pests. Additionally, snails are often found hiding in dark and damp corners of your garden or pots during the daytime.

Now that we know the habits of snails, let’s explore some effective ways to get rid of them.

Manual Removal

The most straightforward method to tackle snail infestation is manual removal. This involves physically picking up the snails and relocating them away from your jade succulent plant. You can do this by going out at night with a flashlight and handpicking the snails off your plant and surrounding areas. Remember to wear gloves as some snails may carry parasites.

Natural Predators

Introducing natural predators of snails into your garden can help control their population. One such predator is the common garden frog. Frogs feed on snails and can significantly reduce their numbers over time. You can attract frogs by creating a small pond or water feature in your garden.

Another natural predator is the beneficial nematode. These microscopic organisms can be purchased online or at gardening stores. When applied to the soil, they infect and kill snails. Beneficial nematodes are safe for plants, humans, and pets.

Copper Barriers

Snails have a dislike for copper, making it an effective deterrent. You can create a barrier around your jade succulent plant using copper tape or copper wire. When snails come into contact with the copper, they receive a small electric shock-like sensation, which repels them.

Make sure the copper barrier is at least 2 inches wide and fully encircles the pot or the area where your jade succulent is planted. Check regularly to ensure there are no gaps or breaks in the barrier.

Beer Traps

A popular method to lure and trap snails is by using beer traps. Snails are attracted to the yeast in beer and will crawl into the trap, ultimately drowning in the liquid. To create a beer trap, bury a shallow container (such as a saucer) in the soil near your jade succulent and fill it with beer. Make sure the rim of the container is level with the soil surface to prevent other beneficial insects from falling in.

Check the beer trap daily and empty it out and refill as needed. This method not only helps control snail populations but also acts as a natural fertilizer for your plants.

Organic Snail Baits

If manual removal and natural predators are not yielding satisfactory results, you can try using organic snail baits. These baits contain iron phosphate, which is harmless to humans, pets, and beneficial insects. When snails consume the bait, they stop feeding and eventually die.

Apply organic snail baits around your jade succulent according to the instructions on the packaging. Remember to keep these baits out of reach from children or pets.

Cultural Practices

Practicing good cultural practices can help prevent snail infestations in the first place. Ensure your jade succulent is planted in well-draining soil to avoid waterlogged conditions that attract snails. Avoid overwatering your plant and remove any dead leaves or debris from the pot or surrounding area.

Additionally, you can create a dry and hostile environment for snails by using gravel or diatomaceous earth around your jade succulent. These substances are uncomfortable for snails to crawl over and can deter them from approaching your plant.

Conclusion

Snail infestations can be frustrating, but by understanding their behavior and implementing the methods mentioned above, you can effectively control their population and protect your jade succulent plant. Remember to regularly monitor your plant for signs of snails and take action promptly to prevent further damage. With a little effort and persistence, you can enjoy a snail-free garden and vibrant jade succulent.