Pest
Snails & Slugs
Irregular holes in leaves with silvery slime trails
Overview
Snails and slugs are mollusks rather than insects, active in moist environments, nocturnal, hiding during the day. They rasp plant tissue with their radula (tongue-like organ), creating irregular holes in leaves, flowers, and tender stems. They leave characteristic silvery mucus trails that dry to shiny silver lines — the definitive calling card. Indoor plants typically get snails from outdoor soil brought in or through pot drainage holes.
Symptoms
Leaves show irregularly sized holes with ragged, chewed edges rather than clean cuts. Silver or transparent dried mucus trails glisten on leaves, soil surface, and nearby surfaces. Snails or slugs can be found under pots or in damp, dark areas. Young seedlings may be completely severed at the base.
Treatment
Hand-pick snails and slugs in the evening using a flashlight (wear gloves or use tweezers). Sprinkle tea seed meal, diatomaceous earth, or wood ash on the soil surface as a repellent. Sink shallow dishes of beer flush with the soil surface for trapping (beer attracts and drowns them). Clear standing water from pot saucers and debris to reduce habitat.
Prevention
Do not use unsterilized outdoor soil. Elevate pots so they do not sit directly on the ground. Regularly check pot drainage holes and dark corners. Inspect pots for snail hiding spots before bringing indoors. Pay extra attention to balcony plants during wet seasons.
