The snails, those voracious dining rooms of our orchards
When it comes to sabotling dinner in your garden, slugs are true champions. They can devour up to half their weight on one night, leaving the plants trembling with fear. Francisco Pescio, an expert in INTA orchards in Buenos Aires, launches a warning: ‘Depending on the type of plant and their size, these mollusks can knock almost any vegetables’.
The ravages in the garden: a battle that is fought day and night
In the world of crops, the shadow of snails looms strongly. Dora Carmona’s investigation of INTA Balcarce, reveals that in some crops such as soybeans and sunflower, damage can reach up to 80%. ‘Only a handful of snail species become true pests,’ warns the publication of INTA Bariloche.
Night drinks: beers that catch mollusks
This is where creativity comes into play. The beer traps have become an ingenious method that, ironically, receives the nickname of the mythical Bon Scott, the first AC/DC vocalist. ‘It’s an art!’ Pescio says. ‘Beer attracts snails. “
How to prepare the perfect trap
This is no more complicated than making a party in your orchard: simply buries a small container, fill it to the edge with beer and … Look how the snails make their great entrance to the banquet! If you want to play at home, a mixture of water, sugar, flour and yeast could do the trick as well. So to provide with nature!
A harmonic coexistence: the importance of respect in the garden
Laura Tanzariello, coordinator of the Prohuerta, highlights the idea that the key is in balance. ‘Our approach is to learn to live with all insects, not eliminate them, “he says. As children get involved, they are taught that each being is part of the ecosystem and that, instead of fighting, you have to make peace!
Comprehensive management: more than just protect plants
The comprehensive pest control strategy includes being cunning with irrigation. Excessive irrigation can attract these undesirable, so it is preferable to be precise and do it right where the plant requires it.
Shelters and biodiversity: allies in the fight
In addition to beer, you can use planks or stones near plants; In this way, the snails will find their refuge under them and you can transfer them to a more conciliatory place. To enhance biodiversity in the garden, mix several aromatic and floral plants. That is the secret to maintaining balance and that nature does its magic!
For an eco-friendly future in our orchards
So the next time you see a snail, instead of seeing it as an enemy, remember that it is part of a great ecosystem. Beach, sun, beer … I say, orchard! Everything can be in harmony if we learn to work together. The coexistence with our soft shell friends will not only help us to have healthier orchards, but will also teach future generations to respect and take care of our planet.
