How to Get Rid of Snails on Pikake Plant

Pikake plants are known for their beautiful fragrant flowers, but they can also attract unwanted guests – snails. These slimy creatures can wreak havoc on the leaves and flowers of your beloved plant if left unchecked. Fortunately, there are several effective methods to get rid of snails and protect your Pikake plant. In this article, we will discuss some of the most popular and proven techniques to keep snails at bay.

1. Handpicking

One of the simplest and most environmentally friendly methods to control snail infestation is handpicking. This method involves manually removing snails from your Pikake plant and relocating them away from your garden. To do this, inspect your plant during the early morning or late evening when snails are most active. Wear gloves to protect your hands and carefully pick off any visible snails. You can then dispose of them by either placing them in a bucket of soapy water or releasing them far away from your garden.

2. Create Barriers

Creating physical barriers around your Pikake plant can effectively deter snails from reaching it. There are several options you can consider:

• Copper tape: Snails dislike crossing copper surfaces due to a reaction between their slime and the metal. Place copper tape around the base of your plant or create a copper collar around the stem to prevent snails from climbing up.
• Crushed eggshells: Sprinkle crushed eggshells around the base of your Pikake plant. The sharp edges will deter snails from crawling over them.
• Diatomaceous earth: This natural powder is made from fossilized remains of algae and has sharp edges that can cut through a snail’s body, causing dehydration and death. Sprinkle diatomaceous earth around your plant to create a barrier.

3. Beer Traps

Snails are attracted to the scent of beer, making it an effective bait to lure them away from your Pikake plant. To create a beer trap, bury a shallow container, such as a small plastic cup or yogurt container, in the ground near your plant. Fill it with beer until it is about an inch deep. The snails will be attracted to the beer and drown in the liquid. Check the traps regularly and empty and refill them as needed.

4. Natural Predators

Introducing natural predators to your garden can help keep snail populations in check. One such predator is the common garden frog or toad. These amphibians feed on snails and can help control their numbers. Create a welcoming environment for frogs and toads by providing areas of shade, water sources like a small pond or birdbath, and plenty of hiding spots such as rocks or logs. Avoid using chemical pesticides as they can harm these beneficial creatures.

5. Organic Snail Baits

If you prefer not to handpick snails or use physical barriers, there are organic snail baits available on the market that can effectively control snail populations. These baits contain iron phosphate as their active ingredient, which is safe for both plants and animals when used as directed. Sprinkle the bait around your Pikake plant following the package instructions, and the snails will consume it and eventually die.

6. Proper Garden Maintenance

Maintaining a healthy garden environment can discourage snails from infesting your Pikake plant. Here are some tips:

• Remove excess leaf litter and debris from around your plant as these provide hiding spots for snails.
• Avoid overwatering your Pikake plant as moist conditions attract snails.
• Regularly trim back overgrown vegetation near your plant, as this can create shelter for snails.
• Keep your garden free from weeds, which can also attract snails.

Conclusion

Snails can be a nuisance for Pikake plant owners, but with the right techniques, they can be effectively controlled. Handpicking, creating barriers, using beer traps, introducing natural predators, and employing organic snail baits are all proven methods to get rid of snails on your Pikake plant. Additionally, maintaining a well-maintained garden environment can help prevent snail infestations in the first place. By implementing these strategies, you can keep your Pikake plant healthy and beautiful, free from the damage caused by snails.