How to Get Rid of Snails on Lavender Plant

Snails are notorious pests that can wreak havoc on your garden, particularly on delicate plants like lavender. Not only do they eat the leaves and flowers of your lavender plant, but they also leave behind a slimy trail that can be quite unsightly. If you’re dealing with a snail infestation on your lavender plant, don’t worry – there are several effective methods you can employ to get rid of these pesky critters. In this article, we will discuss some natural and chemical ways to eliminate snails from your lavender plant.

Natural Methods

Handpicking

One of the simplest and most effective ways to get rid of snails on your lavender plant is by handpicking. This method involves physically removing the snails from the plant and disposing of them. It may not be the most pleasant task, but it can be quite effective, especially if you have a small infestation.

To handpick snails, go out to your lavender plant in the early morning or evening when they are most active. Wear gloves to protect your hands from their slimy trails. Carefully inspect the leaves and stems of the plant, and pick off any snails you come across. You can either squash them or relocate them far away from your garden.

Copper Barriers

Snails don’t like to cross copper surfaces because it gives them a mild electric shock. Utilizing copper barriers around your lavender plant can be an effective way to deter them from climbing and feeding on the plant.

To create a copper barrier, simply wrap copper tape around the base of the lavender plant or place copper wire or mesh around it. Ensure that the copper material fully encircles the plant, creating a continuous barrier. This method is particularly useful for potted lavender plants or those planted in raised beds.

Beer Traps

Snails are attracted to beer, making it an effective bait for trapping them. Beer traps work by luring snails with the scent of beer and then drowning them when they crawl into the liquid.

To create a beer trap, bury a shallow container, such as a jar lid or plastic cup, in the soil near your lavender plant. Fill it with beer, leaving about an inch of space at the top. The snails will be attracted to the beer, crawl in, and ultimately drown. Check the trap regularly and dispose of the drowned snails.

Chemical Methods

Iron Phosphate-Based Baits

Iron phosphate-based baits are a popular and effective method for controlling snails on lavender plants. These baits are safe to use around pets, wildlife, and children, making them an environmentally friendly choice.

Iron phosphate baits work by attracting snails to consume the pellets, which contain iron phosphate as the active ingredient. Once ingested, the iron phosphate disrupts their digestive system, leading to their demise. To use these baits, simply scatter them around the base of your lavender plant according to the package instructions.

Slug and Snail Pellets

Slug and snail pellets are another chemical option for eliminating snails from your lavender plant. These pellets typically contain metaldehyde or methiocarb as active ingredients. However, it’s important to note that these chemicals can be toxic to pets, wildlife, and beneficial insects if not used properly.

When using slug and snail pellets, carefully read and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Scatter the pellets around the base of your lavender plant at recommended intervals. It’s important to keep pets and children away from treated areas until the pellets have dissolved or been removed.

Prevention Tips

In addition to getting rid of snails on your lavender plant, taking preventive measures can help keep them at bay in the future.

• Maintain a clean garden: Remove any debris, fallen leaves, or weeds from your garden regularly. These can provide hiding spots and food sources for snails.

• Avoid overwatering: Snails thrive in moist environments. By avoiding overwatering your lavender plant, you can create a less hospitable environment for them.

• Use companion plants: Some plants, such as rosemary, thyme, and sage, have natural repellent properties against snails. Planting these alongside your lavender can help deter snails from infesting your garden.

• Create physical barriers: Surrounding your lavender plant with barriers like crushed eggshells or diatomaceous earth can make it difficult for snails to access the plant.

By implementing these prevention tips and utilizing the natural and chemical methods mentioned above, you can effectively get rid of snails on your lavender plant and protect it from future infestations.

Remember to always choose the method that aligns with your preferences and values. Whether you opt for natural or chemical solutions, the ultimate goal is to maintain a healthy and thriving lavender plant in your garden.