How to Get Rid of Slaters on Episcia Plant

Episcia plants are known for their beautiful foliage and vibrant colors. However, these plants are also susceptible to pests such as slaters. Slaters, also known as pill bugs or rolly polies, are small crustaceans that feed on decaying plant matter. While they are not harmful to humans, they can cause damage to your Episcia plant by eating its leaves and stems. In this article, we will discuss how to get rid of slaters on Episcia plants.

Identifying Slaters on Episcia Plants

Before we dive into how to get rid of slaters, it’s important to be able to identify them on your Episcia plant. Slaters are small, grayish-brown creatures with a segmented body and 14 legs. They have two pairs of antennae and can roll into a ball when threatened.

Natural Ways to Get Rid of Slaters

If you want to get rid of slaters on your Episcia plant without using chemicals, there are several natural methods you can try:

1. Remove Decaying Plant Matter

Slaters thrive in damp, decaying plant matter. By removing any dead leaves or stems from your Episcia plant, you can help eliminate their food source and discourage them from sticking around.

2. Use Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth is a natural powder made from fossilized diatoms. It works by dehydrating pests like slaters and causing them to die. Sprinkle diatomaceous earth around the base of your Episcia plant and on the soil surface.

3. Set up Traps

You can set up traps using items you may have at home, such as cardboard or newspaper. Roll up the paper into a tube and place it near your Episcia plant. Slaters will crawl inside the tube, and you can dispose of them outside.

4. Use Beneficial Insects

Beneficial insects such as ground beetles and centipedes feed on slaters. You can attract these insects to your garden by planting flowers like daisies and marigolds.

Using Chemicals to Get Rid of Slaters

If natural methods don’t work or if you have a severe infestation, you may need to use chemicals to get rid of slaters on your Episcia plant. Here are some options:

1. Insecticidal Soap

Insecticidal soap is a natural, non-toxic solution that can be used to kill slaters on your Episcia plant. Mix the soap with water according to the instructions on the package and spray it directly onto the slaters.

2. Pyrethrin-Based Insecticides

Pyrethrin-based insecticides are synthetic chemicals that are derived from chrysanthemum flowers. They work by attacking the nervous system of pests like slaters. Follow the instructions on the package carefully when using these products.

Preventing Slaters on Episcia Plants

Prevention is key when it comes to keeping slaters away from your Episcia plant. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Keep your Episcia plant in a well-ventilated area.
• Water your plant only when the soil is dry.
• Use a well-draining soil mix.
• Avoid over-fertilizing your plant.
• Clean up any fallen leaves or debris around your Episcia plant.

By following these steps, you can help prevent slaters from taking up residence on your Episcia plant.

FAQ

Are slaters harmful to humans?

No, slaters are not harmful to humans.

Can slaters damage my Episcia plant?

Yes, slaters can eat the leaves and stems of your Episcia plant, causing damage.

How can I prevent slaters from coming back to my Episcia plant?

Keep your plant in a well-ventilated area, water it only when the soil is dry, use a well-draining soil mix, avoid over-fertilizing, and clean up any fallen leaves or debris.