How to Get Rid of Slaters on Kalanchoe Plant

Kalanchoe plants are a popular choice for indoor and outdoor gardening due to their vibrant colors and low maintenance requirements. However, one common problem that plant owners face is the presence of slaters, also known as woodlice or pill bugs. These small crustaceans can cause damage to the leaves and stems of the kalanchoe plant if left unchecked. In this article, we will discuss effective methods to get rid of slaters and protect your beloved kalanchoe plant.

Understanding Slaters

Slaters are not insects but are crustaceans that belong to the same family as shrimp and lobsters. They have a distinct oval-shaped body and segmented exoskeleton, which allows them to curl up into a ball when threatened. Slaters are primarily nocturnal and prefer dark, damp environments.

While slaters are generally harmless and beneficial to the environment as they help decompose organic matter, they can become a nuisance when they start feeding on your plants. They typically feed on decaying plant matter, but when food sources are limited, they may resort to consuming living plants like kalanchoe.

Prevention is Key

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

1. Maintain Proper Drainage: Slaters thrive in damp environments, so it is essential to ensure proper drainage for your kalanchoe plant. Use well-draining soil and avoid overwatering.

2. Regularly Remove Dead Leaves: Dead leaves provide an ideal hiding place for slaters. Regularly inspect your kalanchoe plant and remove any dead or decaying leaves promptly.

3. Create a Barrier: Placing a layer of crushed eggshells or diatomaceous earth around the base of the plant can act as a barrier and deter slaters from crawling up.

4. Increase Air Circulation: Slaters prefer still, humid environments. Increasing air circulation around your kalanchoe plant can make the environment less favorable for them. Use a fan or open windows to improve airflow.

Natural Remedies

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

1. Handpicking: This method involves manually picking and removing slaters from your plants. While it may be time-consuming, it is an effective way to control their population, especially if the infestation is not severe. Use gloves to protect your hands and dispose of the slaters away from your plant.

2. Traps: You can create simple traps using household items to catch slaters. One effective method is placing a damp newspaper or cardboard near the affected area. Slaters are attracted to dark and moist environments, so they will crawl into the trap, allowing you to remove them easily.

3. Natural Predators: Introducing natural predators such as ground beetles, centipedes, or spiders can help control the population of slaters in your garden. These predators feed on slaters and can help keep their numbers in check.

4. Garlic Spray: Slaters are repelled by the strong scent of garlic. To make a garlic spray, blend a few cloves of garlic with water and strain the mixture. Spray this solution on your kalanchoe plant, focusing on the areas where slaters are most prevalent.

Chemical Control

If natural remedies fail to eliminate the slater infestation, you may consider using chemical control methods as a last resort. However, it is important to use these methods with caution and follow instructions carefully:

1. Insecticidal Soap: Insecticidal soaps are a safe and effective way to control slaters. These soaps work by suffocating the pests and can be sprayed directly on the affected areas of the kalanchoe plant.

2. Chemical Insecticides: There are chemical insecticides available specifically designed to target slaters. These insecticides contain ingredients that kill slaters on contact. However, it is crucial to choose an insecticide labeled for use on ornamental plants and follow the instructions carefully.

Conclusion

Slaters can be a nuisance for kalanchoe plant owners, but with proper preventive measures and diligent action, their infestation can be controlled effectively. Remember to maintain proper drainage, remove dead leaves regularly, and create barriers to prevent slaters from infesting your beloved kalanchoe plants. If they do manage to find their way in, try natural remedies or chemical control methods as a last resort. With patience and persistence, you can successfully get rid of slaters and enjoy a healthy and thriving kalanchoe plant.