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How can I keep snails out of the garden?

With the weather getting warmer, I’ve noticed a massive population of snails in my garden. My garden last year was destroyed by them, and I don’t want the same thing to happen again this year! How do I get rid of them and prevent them from coming back?

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Andrea Barrett · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Having pests infest your garden is a huge bummer and incredibly frustrating. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to keep snails out of your garden.
Snails may look harmless, but you’d be surprised how much they can eat—and destroy. You’re dealing with a snail problem if you notice holes on huge foliage and leaves of seedlings wholly consumed.
Here are the best ways to keep them out of your garden:
  • Use diatomaceous earth: Diatomaceous earth is made from fossilized algae remains, and if you sprinkle it around whatever plants or garden beds are being attacked, it can help deter snails. Crawling over diatomaceous earth is like walking on broken glass for slimy creatures. However, if you want it to be effective, you need to re-apply it. Moisture makes it much less effective, so put more after it rains.
  • Grind up eggshells: Ground eggshells are abrasive, and snails don’t like them. But unlike diatomaceous earth, eggshells have the added benefit of adding calcium and other nutrients to your soil as they degrade. Plus, they’re not heavily affected by water.
  • Consider getting ducks: Yes, this is a real solution. Ducks are some of the best animals to control a snail problem.
  • Use herbs: Chopped mint, thyme, or rosemary is a cost-effective way to deal with your snail problem. The smell of these herbs repels snails, and you’ll have some great herbs for cooking—it’s a win-win situation.
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