How to Get Rid of Slaters on Pansy Plant

Pansies are beloved for their vibrant colors and delicate blooms, but they can sometimes attract unwanted garden pests, such as slaters. Slaters, also known as woodlice or pillbugs, are small crustaceans that feed on decaying organic matter. While they are generally harmless to plants, a large infestation of slaters can cause damage to the roots and stems of pansy plants. Thankfully, there are several effective methods for getting rid of slaters and keeping your pansy plants healthy and thriving. In this article, we will explore these methods in detail.

Understanding Slaters and Their Behavior

Before diving into the various control methods, it’s important to understand the behavior of slaters. Slaters are nocturnal creatures that prefer damp and dark environments. They are attracted to decaying plant matter, so if you have mulch or compost near your pansies, it might be attracting them to your garden.

Slaters have a hard exoskeleton and can roll up into a ball when threatened. While they primarily feed on decaying organic matter, they can also nibble on tender plant shoots and roots when their preferred food source is scarce.

Non-Chemical Control Methods

If you’re dealing with a mild infestation of slaters on your pansy plants, there are several non-chemical control methods you can try before resorting to pesticides.

1. Remove Attractants

Start by removing any decaying plant matter near your pansies. Clean up fallen leaves, dead flowers, and any other organic debris that might be providing a food source for the slaters. This will help make your garden less attractive to them.

2. Improve Drainage

Slaters thrive in damp environments, so improving the drainage around your pansies can help discourage them from taking up residence. Ensure that your plants are not overwatered and that the soil has proper drainage. Avoid overwatering, especially in areas prone to slater infestations.

3. Provide Shelter for Natural Predators

Encourage natural predators of slaters, such as birds and ground beetles, to inhabit your garden. These predators will help control the slater population naturally. Provide nesting boxes or bird feeders to attract more birds, and create a diverse garden with a variety of plants to attract beneficial insects like ground beetles.

4. Use Barriers

If you have a small-scale infestation, you can create barriers around your pansies to physically prevent slaters from reaching them. Use diatomaceous earth or crushed eggshells around the base of the plants. These substances have sharp edges that deter slaters from crossing them.

Chemical Control Methods

If the infestation is severe or the non-chemical methods are not effective, you may need to resort to chemical control methods. It’s important to note that pesticides should always be used as a last resort and according to label instructions.

1. Insecticidal Soap

Insecticidal soap is an effective and environmentally friendly option for controlling slaters on pansy plants. It works by suffocating the pests upon contact. To use insecticidal soap, thoroughly spray the affected plants, ensuring that the solution reaches all parts of the plant, including the undersides of leaves and stems. Repeat applications may be necessary to fully eliminate the infestation.

2. Pyrethrin-Based Insecticides

Pyrethrin-based insecticides are derived from chrysanthemum flowers and are effective against a wide range of garden pests, including slaters. They work by targeting the nervous system of insects and can be used as a spray or dust. Follow the instructions on the product label for application rates and frequency.

3. Chemical Baits

Chemical baits can also be used to control slaters. These baits contain an insecticide that is attractive to the pests. Place the bait near the affected plants, and the slaters will consume it and die. Be cautious when using chemical baits, as they can be harmful to other beneficial insects and should be used sparingly.

Prevention is Key

While it’s important to know how to get rid of slaters on pansy plants, prevention is always better than cure. Taking proactive measures can help prevent slater infestations from occurring in the first place.

• Regularly inspect your garden for signs of decay and remove any decaying plant matter promptly.
• Avoid overwatering your pansies and ensure proper drainage to discourage slaters.
• Create a diverse garden with a variety of plants to attract natural predators of slaters.
• Practice good garden hygiene by cleaning up fallen leaves and debris regularly.

By implementing these preventive measures and using the appropriate control methods, you can keep your pansy plants healthy and free from slater infestations. Remember to always follow label instructions when using pesticides and opt for non-chemical methods whenever possible. Happy gardening!