After several inches of rain last week an interesting observation was made where peanuts were recently planted. Snails were present in high numbers in this conventionally tilled field. Normally, we would expect to find them in fields with more plant residue. Recent tillage and rain likely made the snails more noticeable. Dr. Abney says that the snails do not usually feed on live plants, just decomposing plant material, so they don’t pose a threat to the crop until harvest (if they make it into the combine).
There is little information available on snail control in peanuts, but some recommend tilling to disturb the soil and prevent populations from increasing. However, this may not be an option for growers implementing conservation tillage practices.
Thomas County Ag 