How to Get Rid of Slaters on Carolina Reaper Plant

Carolina Reaper is one of the hottest chili peppers in the world, and it requires special care to grow. However, slaters, also known as pillbugs or woodlice, can be a real issue for the plant’s growth and health. Slaters are small crustaceans that feed on dead organic matter and can cause damage to young plants by eating their leaves and stems. If you’re struggling with slaters on your Carolina Reaper plant, here are some tips on how to get rid of them.

Identify the Problem

The first step in getting rid of slaters on your Carolina Reaper plant is to identify the problem. Slaters are usually found in moist, shady areas and are more active at night. They can be easily identified by their oval-shaped bodies and grey or brown color. Slaters can be found under rocks, in soil, and in garden debris.

Remove Debris

Slaters are attracted to moist conditions, so it’s important to maintain a dry environment around your Carolina Reaper plant. Remove any debris from around the plant that could be providing a moist environment for slaters. This includes rocks, mulch, and fallen leaves.

Use Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth is a natural pesticide that can be used to get rid of slaters on your Carolina Reaper plant. It’s made from the fossilized remains of tiny aquatic organisms called diatoms, which have sharp edges that can cut through the exoskeleton of insects. Sprinkle diatomaceous earth around the base of your plant and on the leaves to deter slaters from feeding on them.

Apply Beneficial Nematodes

Beneficial nematodes are microscopic worms that feed on slaters and other pests. They’re a natural way to control slaters on your Carolina Reaper plant without harming other beneficial insects in your garden. Beneficial nematodes can be purchased at most garden centers and can be applied to the soil around your plant.

Use Traps

Trapping slaters is another effective way to get rid of them on your Carolina Reaper plant. You can use a variety of traps, including a shallow dish filled with beer or a rolled-up newspaper. The slaters will be attracted to the moist environment and will drown in the beer or get stuck in the newspaper.

FAQ

Are slaters harmful to my Carolina Reaper plant?

Yes, slaters can cause damage to young plants by eating their leaves and stems.

Can I use chemical pesticides to get rid of slaters?

While chemical pesticides can be effective in getting rid of slaters, they can also harm other beneficial insects in your garden. It’s best to use natural methods like diatomaceous earth and beneficial nematodes.

Will slaters come back after I get rid of them?

Slaters can be persistent, so it’s important to maintain a dry environment around your Carolina Reaper plant and continue using natural methods to keep them at bay.

In conclusion, slaters can be a real issue for your Carolina Reaper plant, but there are natural ways to control them without harming other beneficial insects in your garden. By identifying the problem, removing debris, using diatomaceous earth and beneficial nematodes, and trapping slaters, you can keep your Carolina Reaper plant healthy and thriving.