How to Get Rid of Slaters on Annual Mallow Flower

Annual mallow flowers, also known as Lavatera trimestris, are beautiful and vibrant additions to any garden. However, these delicate flowers can sometimes attract unwanted pests such as slaters, also known as woodlice or pill bugs. Slaters are small crustaceans that feed on decaying plant matter and can damage the leaves and stems of annual mallow flowers if left unchecked. In this article, we will discuss several methods to get rid of slaters and protect your annual mallow flowers.

Identifying Slaters

Before you can effectively eliminate slaters from your annual mallow flowers, it is important to be able to identify them. Slaters are small, grayish-brown creatures with segmented bodies and seven pairs of legs. They are commonly found in moist environments such as under rocks, logs, or mulch. If you notice holes in the leaves of your annual mallow flowers or see slaters crawling around the base of the plant, it is likely that they are the culprit.

Natural Predators

One of the most effective ways to control slaters on your annual mallow flowers is by introducing natural predators into your garden. There are several animals that feed on slaters, including birds like robins and blackbirds, as well as ground beetles and predatory insects like centipedes and spiders. By encouraging these natural predators to frequent your garden, you can help keep the slater population in check.

Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth is a natural substance made from fossilized algae that can be an effective way to control slaters on your annual mallow flowers. Sprinkle a thin layer of diatomaceous earth around the base of the plant and on the soil surface. When slaters come into contact with diatomaceous earth, it absorbs the oils from their exoskeletons, causing them to dehydrate and die. Be sure to reapply diatomaceous earth after rainfall or watering to maintain its effectiveness.

Remove Decaying Plant Matter

Slaters are attracted to decaying plant matter, so one way to deter them from your annual mallow flowers is by removing any dead leaves, twigs, or other organic debris from around the plant. Keep the area around your flowers clean and well-maintained to reduce the habitat available to slaters.

Neem Oil

Neem oil is a natural insecticide derived from the seeds of the neem tree that can be effective in controlling slaters on annual mallow flowers. Mix neem oil with water according to the manufacturer’s instructions and spray it on the leaves and stems of the plant. Neem oil works by disrupting the feeding and reproductive habits of pests like slaters, making it an environmentally friendly option for pest control.

Copper Tape

Another effective method for keeping slaters away from your annual mallow flowers is by using copper tape. Slaters are repelled by copper because it gives them a small electric shock when they come into contact with it. Place a band of copper tape around the base of the plant or create a barrier around your flower beds to prevent slaters from accessing your plants.

Beer Traps

Beer traps are a popular method for controlling slaters in gardens. Simply bury a small container, such as a yogurt cup or tuna can, in the soil near your annual mallow flowers and fill it with beer. Slaters are attracted to the scent of beer and will climb into the container, where they will drown. Check and empty the traps regularly to keep them effective.

Companion Planting

Companion planting involves growing certain plants together to benefit each other in various ways, including pest control. Planting aromatic herbs like mint, basil, or lavender near your annual mallow flowers can help deter slaters and other pests due to their strong scents. Additionally, some companion plants attract beneficial insects that feed on pests like slaters.

Conclusion

Slaters can be a nuisance in gardens, especially when they target delicate flowers like annual mallows. By identifying these pests early and implementing one or more of the methods mentioned above, you can effectively control their population and protect your plants. Whether you opt for natural predators, diatomaceous earth, neem oil, or other strategies, taking proactive steps to combat slaters will help ensure that your annual mallow flowers thrive and bloom beautifully in your garden.