GARDEN FANATIC:Slow down snails with traps, not stomps

“The primary use of conversation is to satisfy the impulse to talk.� -- George Santayana

“Catch a snail in our jail.� -- Advertising slogan

Has your garden been talking to you? I know that if it isn’t Catharine, mom or a friend, then it must be my garden, reminding me there is work to be done. I inadvertently stepped on a pair of snails while picking up the Times this morning... a reminder that the snail thing is a disconcerting part of spring.

Most of us can accept minor damage to plants and allow natural methods like the weather to assume the major role in controlling garden pests. But the late rain this past week (and possible garden neglect) has provided snails and slugs the perfect opportunity to hide and breed in our gardens.

What is the difference between a snail and a slug? They are both mollusks (cousins to the oysters and clams) and are essentially the same, but the snail has an external shell.

Both secrete mucus to glide over surfaces... upon drying it becomes the familiar slime trail. Without moisture they are dormant, but overcast weather has allowed the slimy guys with the cover to produce lots of eggs in our gardens.

Collection and destruction of snails and slugs by hand is the oldest control method, and is still a good one. For example, our slow moving friends usually concentrate near the damage they create, and are easily plucked off... if you’re willing to hunt at night or early morning, aided with a Petzel headlamp.

The control of snails by their enemies, especially by predators, is another viable solution.

The introduction of Decollate snails may be very effective in slowing down their evil, brown relatives. However, these “good� snails don’t win overnight... it can take up to a year before they gain the upper hand. In the meanwhile, discontinue snail bait and rely on supplemental hand management.

Traps and barriers are useful in checking snails and slugs. I recommend using “Slug-X Trap� snail and slug trap. The green trap is filled with leftover beer you confiscated from the kid’s bedroom, and may be emptied and returned to the garden.

I also espouse the use of slug and snail copper tape. It holds a small electrical charge, which repels slugs and snails. Use it to protect individual plants or entire planting areas.

Many gardeners rely on snail and slug control through the use of Methaldehyde-based pellets and granules. This non-persistent molluscicide works as an attractant and toxicant.

Before spreading the bait, wet down the areas to be treated to encourage evening activity. If you must use bait, go for That’s-It or Corry’s around edible plants.

Last weekend, Catharine and I were grooming the garden and admiring her Mutabilis rose. I was startled to find myself staring down at four snails crawling down a stem.

With great effort, I restrained myself from squishing them, even though the evildoers had been happily munching on our flowers. Instead, I fed them to the Decollates: a great way to clean and recycle in the garden. See you next time.