How to Get Rid of Snails on Ascot Rainbow Spurge Plant

Snails can be a real nuisance in the garden, munching their way through our beautiful plants and leaving unsightly slime trails in their wake. One plant that seems to attract more than its fair share of these pesky gastropods is the Ascot Rainbow spurge (Euphorbia x martinii ‘Ascot Rainbow’). With its lush green and cream variegated foliage, it’s no wonder snails make a beeline straight for this eye-catching perennial. But never fear – with a few simple strategies, you can protect your prized Ascot Rainbow spurges and get rid of those bothersome snails for good.

Why Are Snails Attracted to Ascot Rainbow Spurge?

To understand how to deter snails, it helps to know what attracts them in the first place. There are a few key features of the Ascot Rainbow spurge that snails find irresistible:

• Succulent foliage – The spurge’s leaves are juicy and tender, providing snails with the moisture they crave

• Bright coloration – Snails gravitate toward vivid plants like the spurge’s variegated leaves.

• Constant moisture – Spurges thrive in damp soil, which snails love.

• Sheltered habitat – The spurge’s dense clumping growth habit offers hiding spots.

Effective Natural Remedies to Eliminate Snails

The good news is, with a combination of diligence and strategic home remedies, you can get snails under control and protect your Ascot Rainbow spurges. Here are some of the most effective natural solutions:

Hand Picking

Physically removing snails by hand is one of the best immediate defenses. Inspect plants carefully first thing in the morning when snails are most active. Crush large snails or drop them into a bucket of soapy water.

Copper Tape Barrier

Snails hate slithering over copper Wrap strips of copper tape around pots or plant stems to prevent snails from climbing up

Diatomaceous Earth

This powdery natural substance comprised of fossilized algae is like shards of glass to soft snail bodies. Lightly dust the topsoil around plants.

Beer Traps

Sinks or jars filled with beer will attract snails – they’ll crawl in and drown. Bury traps near plants with the rim at soil level.

When to Use Snail Bait

For severe infestations, snail bait containing iron phosphate or metaldehyde may be necessary. Use these with extreme care and as a last resort, as they can harm pets, birds, wildlife and beneficial insects. Never apply near edibles. Follow package directions closely.

Prevent Snails from Returning

Getting rid of snails is only half the battle – you’ll need to take proactive steps to keep them away from your prized Ascot Rainbow spurges in the long run:

• Remove leaf litter, debris, and weeds where snails hide.

• Water early in the day so plants dry out by evening.

• Surround pots with sharp materials like crushed eggshells or gravel.

• Attract birds to feed on snails.

• Rotate bait stations – don’t leave in one spot for too long.

• Hand pick daily to control populations.

• Apply slug repellent routinely.

When to Call in a Professional

If you simply can’t get snails under control with DIY methods, don’t struggle alone – call in a professional exterminator. They have commercial strength products not available to homeowners and can assess the extent of your infestation and develop a tailored elimination plan. Though not cheap, a one-time treatment by a pro can solve a serious snail problem for good.

With persistence, consistency and an integrated pest management plan, you can eliminate the snails feasting on your Ascot Rainbow spurges. Pay close attention, take action at the first signs of snail damage, and incorporate multiple techniques for the best results. With snails gone, you can finally sit back and enjoy the full beauty of your colorful spurges. Don’t let a few slimy pests ruin your gardening enjoyment – take control and reclaim your plants!