How to Get Rid of Slaters on Hydrangea Plant

Hydrangeas are beautiful flowering plants that add a touch of elegance to any garden. However, slaters, also known as woodlice or pillbugs, can be a nuisance for hydrangea enthusiasts. These small crustaceans feed on decaying plant matter and can damage the leaves and flowers of the hydrangea plant. In this article, we will discuss effective methods to get rid of slaters and protect your hydrangea plants.

Understanding Slaters

Before we delve into the solutions, it is important to understand the nature and behavior of slaters. Slaters are not insects but rather belong to the crustacean family. They have a hard exoskeleton and are commonly found in damp and dark environments, such as under logs, rocks, or mulch. While they primarily feed on decaying plant material, they may also nibble on live plants if given the opportunity.

Slaters are generally harmless to humans and do not cause any serious damage to plants. However, their feeding behavior can lead to unsightly holes in hydrangea leaves and flowers, which can be detrimental to the overall aesthetics of the plant.

Prevention is Key

The best way to deal with slaters on your hydrangea plants is by preventing their presence in the first place. Here are some preventive measures you can take:

1. Maintain Proper Hygiene: Remove any dead leaves, decaying plant matter, or mulch from around your hydrangea plants regularly. This will eliminate potential food sources for slaters and discourage their presence.

2. Improve Drainage: Slaters thrive in damp environments. Ensure that your hydrangea plants are not overwatered and that the soil has proper drainage. This will make the area less attractive to slaters.

3. Create Barriers: Place a layer of gravel or crushed eggshells around the base of your hydrangea plants. Slaters find it difficult to crawl over these sharp surfaces, preventing them from reaching the plant.

Natural Remedies

If slaters have already infested your hydrangea plants, there are several natural remedies you can try to get rid of them:

1. Handpicking: The simplest method is to manually pick off the slaters from the plant and dispose of them far away from your garden. This can be time-consuming but is effective for small infestations.

2. Beer Traps: Slaters are attracted to the smell of beer. Create a trap by burying a shallow container, such as a jar lid, in the soil near the affected hydrangea plant. Fill it with beer and leave it overnight. The slaters will be lured into the trap and drown in the beer.

3. Diatomaceous Earth: Sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth around the base of your hydrangea plants. This powdery substance is made from fossilized remains of algae and has sharp edges that cut through the exoskeletons of slaters, causing them to dehydrate and die.

4. Coffee Grounds: Spread used coffee grounds around your hydrangea plants. Slaters dislike the acidic nature of coffee grounds and will avoid areas treated with it.

5. Citrus Peels: Place citrus peels, such as those from oranges or lemons, near your hydrangea plants. The strong scent repels slaters and discourages them from feeding on the leaves and flowers.

Chemical Solutions

If natural remedies fail to eliminate the slater infestation, you may consider using chemical solutions as a last resort. However, exercise caution when using chemicals, as they may also harm beneficial insects and other organisms in your garden. Here are some options:

1. Insecticidal Soap: Spray an insecticidal soap solution directly onto the slaters and the affected areas of your hydrangea plants. This soap disrupts their cell membranes, causing them to dehydrate and die. Follow the instructions on the product label and avoid spraying when bees or other pollinators are active.

2. Pesticides: If the infestation is severe and other methods have failed, you can resort to using pesticides specifically formulated for slaters. Choose a pesticide that is labeled safe for use on ornamental plants and follow the instructions carefully.

Remember to always read and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer when using any chemical solutions. It is also advisable to wear protective clothing, such as gloves and a mask, to minimize exposure.

Conclusion

Slaters can be a nuisance for hydrangea plant owners, but with proper prevention and effective remedies, you can keep these crustaceans at bay. Regularly maintaining hygiene, improving drainage, and creating barriers are essential preventive measures. Natural remedies such as handpicking, beer traps, diatomaceous earth, coffee grounds, and citrus peels can also help eliminate slaters. If all else fails, chemical solutions like insecticidal soap or pesticides can be considered as a last resort. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your hydrangea plants remain healthy and free from slater damage.