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How to Get Rid of Slaters on Draceana Plant

Updated: August 10, 2022

Introduction

Draceana plants are known for their striking foliage and ease of care, making them a popular houseplant choice. However, like any other plant, they can fall prey to pests. One of the most common pests that affect Draceana plants is slaters. Slaters, also known as woodlice or pillbugs, are crustaceans that feed on decaying plant matter. While they don’t cause significant damage to the plant itself, they can be unsightly and indicate other issues with the plant’s health. In this article, we will discuss how to get rid of slaters on your Draceana plant.

Identifying Slaters on Draceana Plants

Before delving into how to get rid of these pests, it’s important to know what they look like. Slaters are small flat creatures that are usually gray or brown in color. They have segmented bodies and numerous legs that help them move around easily. Slaters are often found hiding under pots, in soil, or in dark crevices near the base of a plant.

Prevention

The best way to deal with pests like slaters is to prevent them from infesting your Draceana plant in the first place. Here are some preventative measures you can take:

  • Cleanliness: Keep the area around your Draceana plant clean and free from debris as this is where slaters thrive.
  • Watering: Overwatering can create moist environments that slaters love, so make sure you only water your plant when necessary.
  • Pest control: Use insecticidal soap or neem oil spray to keep pests away from your plants.
  • Airflow: Proper ventilation and air circulation around your plants can help prevent infestations.

How to Get Rid of Slaters on Draceana Plants

If you notice slaters on your Draceana plant, here are some steps you can take to get rid of them:

Step 1: Remove Debris and Clean the Area

Slaters love to hide in damp, dark places, so removing debris and cleaning the area around your plant can help eliminate their hiding spots. Use a damp cloth or paper towel to wipe down the leaves and stems of your plant.

Step 2: Water Your Plant Properly

Overwatering can attract slaters to your plant, so make sure you’re only watering when necessary. Let the top inch of soil dry out before watering again. This will create a less hospitable environment for slaters.

Step 3: Use Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth is a natural pest control that can be used to get rid of slaters. This powder is made from diatoms, which are tiny sea creatures that have sharp edges. When slaters come into contact with diatomaceous earth, the sharp edges cut through their exoskeletons, causing them to die. Sprinkle a thin layer of diatomaceous earth around the base of your plant.

Step 4: Use a Natural Pesticide

Spraying your Draceana plant with a natural pesticide can help get rid of slaters. Neem oil is an effective natural pesticide that can be used on plants. Mix one tablespoon of neem oil with one liter of water and spray the mixture on your Draceana plant.

FAQ

How do I know if my Draceana plant has slaters?

Look for small gray or brown flat creatures with segmented bodies and numerous legs hiding under pots, in soil, or in dark crevices near the base of your Draceana plant.

Can slaters harm my Draceana plant?

No, slaters do not harm Draceana plants. However, their presence can indicate other issues with the plant’s health.

How often should I water my Draceana plant?

Water your Draceana plant when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. Overwatering can create a moist environment that slaters love.

What is diatomaceous earth?

Diatomaceous earth is a natural pest control made from diatoms, tiny sea creatures that have sharp edges that cut through insects’ exoskeletons, causing them to die.

Can I use chemical pesticides on my Draceana plant?

Chemical pesticides can be harmful to your Draceana plant and should be avoided. Stick to natural pest control methods like diatomaceous earth or neem oil.