Data from the University of California’s Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (U.C.A.N.R.) indicates that snails are mollusks that excrete mucus and leave a residue that appears white or silver. Slugs share many of the same physical characteristics as snails but lack a protective shell. Approximately 280 different species of snails and slugs exist throughout California.
Three of the most commonly found kinds of snails include brown garden snails, cellar-glass snails, and amber snails. The most prevalent brown garden snail or European garden snail (Cornu aspersum) has a shell with a diameter measuring roughly 1 ¼ inches. The exterior shell appears patterned in brownish or grey colors. The hardness of the shell largely results from the amount of calcium in the snail’s diet. What do snails eat? Snails are pests commonly found in garden areas that consume plant material.
Researchers believe that the species arrived in California in the 1800s as a food source. In certain Mediterranean-area countries, the brown garden snail remains a sought-after food.
Snails are hermaphrodites, meaning they possess reproductive organs of males and females, yet still must mate with others before developing eggs. In one month, adults often generate up to 80 whitish eggs. The common brown garden snail reaches maturity in roughly two years.
Are you noticing too many snails on your property? An experienced San Diego pest control company has technicians that will detect the presence of the types of snails in San Diego and choose an effective treatment option.
How To Tell If You Have A Snail Problem
In most cases, people will notice damage to plants resulting from snails chewing on them. People will most likely encounter a snail on cool days under cloudy skies, as they usually remain hidden on hot days and avoid exposure to direct sunlight.
San Diego’s relatively mild climate typically accommodates snails year-round—particularly along the coast. In areas of the state with cold winters, snails will generally hibernate within the soil.
Problems Snails Can Create In Your Yard
What are the primary concerns associated with the different types of snails found in San Diego? The types of plants most vulnerable to snails include basil, marigolds, strawberries, and many vegetable plants.
Snails usually target seedlings or plants with lush foliage. Most damage occurs among leaves, flowers, and some thin or weakened tree bark.
What Are Ways To Get Rid Of Snails In Your Garden?
As a somewhat obscure type of pest, many property owners in San Diego lack knowledge of the best ways of preventing or deterring snails. Some of the best practices include:
- Choose plants that withstand snails, such as begonias, geraniums, nasturtiums, or purple robe cup flowers.
- Snails often avoid highly-fragrant plants such as rosemary or lavender.
- Inspect plants for any evidence of snails before bringing them inside your home or plant nursery area.
- Limit hiding places by removing unnecessary debris such as stones and keeping vegetation trimmed
Keep in mind that although woody plants with stiff leaves are rarely consumed by snails, they might serve as hiding spots for these unwanted creatures.
Professional Snail Control Formulated For San Diego Properties
Are you wondering how to get rid of snails in the house? Consider contacting a local home pest control company with experience in safely and effectively solving these problems. At Allswell Here, our qualified technicians receive training regarding the various types of snails in California and understand their behavior.
Our organization provides full-service pest control solutions for customers struggling with troublesome critters in residential and commercial environments. After receiving a customer inquiry, one of our licensed technicians will visit the premises and perform a walkthrough, which is a process that reveals the nature and extent of the pest-related intrusion. We perform efficient treatment that includes a satisfaction guarantee.
Contact us today for a consultation.