Teg Blog & News

Most people do not think of snails when considering the various kinds of pests they might encounter. However, if you're one of many homeowners in Visalia, CA, you may, unfortunately, have to deal with a snail problem!

What type of snails am I dealing with?

Snails are challenging to control and prevent, but there are a few things you can do. First, it's essential to identify what kind of snail you're dealing with. There are two main types of snails in California: the garden snail and the brown snail.

The most common snail you may deal with in Visalia is the brown garden snail (Cornu asperum). The brown snail is a small, brown-colored snail that is found in gardens and other moist areas. It is a herbivore and feeds on leaves, flowers, and fruits. The brown snail is a common pest of plants, can cause damage to crops, and can really be a nuisance!

Another snail that might visit your Visalia home is the garden snail. Garden snails are brownish-grey creatures that are often found in gardens, feeding on plants. They have a soft, slimy body and a hard, spiral shell. Garden snails are not native to California, but they can be found in many parts of the state, including Visalia. If you find a garden snail in your home, it is likely that it came in from the garden on its own accord.

Why are snails a problem?

Snails can be difficult to control because they reproduce quickly and can travel long distances. But why are they considered a pest?

• Snails can spread disease.
  • A new study has found that snails can spread disease. The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Florida, looked at how the snail-borne parasite Angiostrongylus cantonensis can infect rats. The findings suggest that the parasite can also infect other animals and that snails may be a potential vector for disease transmission.

• Snails can harm the crop yield from your food garden.
  • Snails are a common pest in food gardens and can cause significant damage to crops. While they are typically not very harmful to humans, they can transmit diseases to plants. Snails prefer damp conditions and often hide in wet leaves or soil during the day. At night, they emerge to feed on tender young plants, leaves, and fruits.
  • Heavy infestations of snails can destroy entire crops. In addition to eating plants, snails deposit their slimy feces on leaves and fruits, which can contaminate food.

• Snails can damage your water features.
  • Snails can wreak havoc on your water features if left unchecked. They are known to eat fish food, which can deplete the resources your fish need to survive. In addition, they can also spread disease and parasites to your fish. Snails can also clog filters and pumps, which can cause serious damage to your equipment. If you suspect you have a snail problem, it is best to take action immediately to prevent further damage.

How can you prevent snails?

It's no secret that snails can wreak havoc on a garden. But there are thankfully a few ways that you can prevent them from destroying your hard work. Here are three snail-prevention tips to keep in mind:

1. Keep your garden clean.  A tidy garden is a less inviting place for snails. This means removing debris, such as dead leaves and branches, on a regular basis since snails like to hide. You should also avoid over-watering your plants, as snails thrive in moist conditions.

2. Make sure your plants are healthy. Snails are more likely to attack weak or sickly plants. So give your plants the best chance by keeping them well-watered and fertilized. Unhealthy plants are more likely to have soft leaves, which are easier for snails to eat. To keep your plants healthy, water them regularly and give them the right amount of sunlight. If you don't want snails eating your plants, make sure your plants are healthy.

3. Use barriers. If you don't want snails in your garden, the best way to keep them out is by using barriers. You can create a barrier around your garden bed with a piece of copper flashing or by laying down a row of broken eggshells. Snails are also deterred by sharp gravel, so you could try putting that around the base of your plants.

In conclusion, if you have tried the above methods and still have a snail problem at your Visalia home, it is time to call in the experts at The Experienced Gardener! They will be able to help you solve your snail problem quickly and efficiently.