How to Get Rid of Slaters on Inch Plant

Inch plants, also known as Wandering Jew or Tradescantia zebrina, are popular houseplants known for their trailing vines and striking purple and silver striped leaves. While they are generally easy to care for, inch plants can sometimes attract unwanted pests, such as slaters, which can damage the plant’s foliage and overall health. If you’ve noticed slaters on your inch plant and want to get rid of them, here are some effective methods to consider.

What Are Slaters?

Slaters, also known as pill bugs or woodlice, are small crustaceans that belong to the same family as lobsters and crabs. They are commonly found in damp environments such as gardens, basements, and potted plants. Slaters are not harmful to humans or pets but can become a nuisance when they start feeding on plants, including inch plants.

Prevention is Key

Preventing slaters from infesting your inch plant is crucial in maintaining its health. Here are some preventive measures you can take:

Inspect new plants: Before bringing a new inch plant into your home, make sure to inspect it thoroughly for any signs of pest infestation. Check the leaves, stems, and soil for slaters or any other unwanted bugs.
Proper watering: Overwatering can create a moist environment that attracts slaters. Ensure that your inch plant is not sitting in water and allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering sessions.
Remove decaying leaves: Slaters are attracted to decaying organic matter. Regularly remove any dead or decaying leaves from your inch plant to eliminate potential food sources for these pests.

Natural Remedies

If you’ve already noticed slaters on your inch plant, there are several natural remedies you can try before resorting to chemical pesticides. These methods are safe for both the plant and the environment:

Manual removal: One of the simplest ways to get rid of slaters is to pick them off your inch plant manually. Use tweezers or your fingers to carefully remove the pests from the leaves and stems. Be sure to dispose of them away from the plant.
Diatomaceous earth: Diatomaceous earth is a natural powder made from fossilized algae. Sprinkle a thin layer of diatomaceous earth around the base of your inch plant or directly on the leaves. As slaters crawl over it, the powder will absorb moisture from their bodies, ultimately causing dehydration and death.
Beer traps: Create a simple beer trap by placing a shallow container filled with beer near your inch plant. Slaters are attracted to the scent of beer and will crawl into the container, eventually drowning. Make sure to empty and refill the trap regularly.

Chemical Control

If natural remedies do not provide satisfactory results, you can consider using chemical controls as a last resort. However, it is important to exercise caution when using pesticides, as they can be harmful to humans, pets, and beneficial insects. Here are a few options to consider:

Insecticidal soap: Insecticidal soaps are commercially available products that effectively control soft-bodied pests like slaters. Follow the instructions on the label and apply the soap directly onto the affected areas of your inch plant.
Neem oil: Neem oil is another natural pesticide that can be effective against slaters. Mix neem oil with water according to the instructions on the bottle and spray it on your inch plant, focusing on areas where slaters are present.
Pyrethrin-based insecticides: Pyrethrin-based insecticides are derived from chrysanthemum flowers and are considered low in toxicity to humans and pets. Follow the instructions on the label and use these insecticides as a last resort.

Ongoing Care

Once you have successfully eliminated the slaters from your inch plant, it’s essential to maintain good care practices to prevent future infestations. Here are some tips to keep your inch plant healthy:

Monitor humidity: Slaters thrive in damp environments, so make sure to monitor the humidity levels around your inch plant. Consider using a dehumidifier or placing the plant in a well-ventilated area.
Avoid overwatering: As mentioned earlier, overwatering can create a favorable environment for slaters. Water your inch plant only when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Cleanliness is key: Regularly clean the leaves and stems of your inch plant to remove any dust or debris that may attract pests. Use a damp cloth or sponge to gently wipe them down.

By following these preventive measures and effective remedies, you can successfully eliminate slaters from your inch plant and ensure its long-term health and beauty. Remember that patience and consistency are key when dealing with pest infestations, so be persistent in your efforts and adapt your methods as necessary.