Whether slugs or those with snail shells - the unpleasant pests like to attack basil just like many other plants in the garden and nibble on the culinary herb. We show how snail infestation can be recognized and what measures can be taken to prevent it.
Why do snails eat basil?
For snails, who are almost magically attracted to basil, the plants are an ideal andtasty food source. The pests appreciate the taste so much that they sometimes eat the basil down to the skeleton.
How can you recognize a snail infestation on basil?
Although eaten basil leaves can also have other causes, snails are usually the cause. The infestation in the herb bed can be recognized by the following damage patterns:
- The leaves arefrom the outside to the inside eaten.
- Eating is going very wellquickly.
- Holes in thecenter of the leaf are common.
A clear indication of snail infestation areSlime traces, which can be found on a part of a plant, but also on the ground.
How do I protect my basil from slugs?
There are three options to prevent snail infestation:
- Put up asnail fence as a barrier. In this way, the pests can be prevented from reaching the basil in the bed.
- Basilgrow in raised beds - this makes it almost impossible for snails to reach the herbs.
- Basil together withLavenderorGypsophila. These fragrant plants as neighbors drive away the snails and the basil can be harvested without damage.
Plant
Are there home remedies to protect against snails?
Home remedies can be usedvery wellas protection against snail infestation on basil. The following home remedies can be used:
- Set up beer traps in which the snails drown.
- Sprinkle dried coffee grounds around the basil plant (the caffeine it contains is toxic to slugs).
- Lay sawdust around the basil. Make sure the height is a few centimeters so that the snails cannot overcome the natural barrier.
How to get rid of slugs on basil?
To eliminate the pests, you should collect themearly morning - then they are still rigid due to the cold. This is the only action you can take if the basil has already been eaten. If protective measures are taken, further eating can be prevented. The nibbled leaves are no longer suitable for consumption.
Can the snails also be controlled chemically?
Chemical control of a snail infestation ispossible, but should always be theabsolute last resort for the hobby gardener. Chemical poison traps are available for this case. With regard to ecological gardening, however, it is better to avoid this option - especially since a snail fence and the various home remedies are very effective.
Tip
Protect young plants too
Just planted in the bed and then nibbled on by snails - to prevent this from happening, snail collars can be placed around young plants, which offer very good protection.
