How to Get Rid of Slaters on Pothos Hanging Plant

Introduction

Pothos plants are popular indoor hanging plants known for their beautiful trailing vines and ability to thrive in low-light conditions. However, like any other plant, they can be susceptible to pests. One common pest that can infest pothos plants is slaters, also known as woodlice or pill bugs. These small crustaceans are not true insects but can still cause damage to your beloved plant if left unchecked. In this article, we will discuss how to identify slaters on your pothos hanging plant and provide effective methods for getting rid of them.

Identifying Slaters

Slaters are small, grayish-brown creatures that measure about 1 cm in length. They have a segmented body and seven pairs of legs, which they use to crawl around vegetation. Slaters are often mistaken for insects, but they are actually crustaceans and are more closely related to lobsters and crabs than insects.

To determine if your pothos plant has been infested with slaters, inspect the plant carefully. Look for signs of damage such as irregular holes in the leaves or stems. You may also notice small black droppings near the base of the plant or on the leaves. Additionally, if you see small grayish-brown creatures crawling around your plant, chances are you have a slater infestation.

Prevention is Key

Preventing slater infestations is crucial to maintaining the health of your pothos hanging plant. Here are some preventive measures you can take:

Inspect new plants: Before bringing a new pothos plant into your home, thoroughly inspect it for any signs of pests, including slaters. Check the undersides of leaves and along the stems for any crawling creatures or damage.
Quarantine new plants: If you suspect a new plant may be infested, isolate it from your existing plants for a few weeks. This will prevent any potential pests from spreading to your other plants.
Maintain proper hygiene: Regularly clean the area around your pothos plant. Remove fallen leaves or debris that may attract slaters or other pests.
Avoid overwatering: Slaters are attracted to damp environments, so be mindful of not overwatering your pothos hanging plant. Ensure proper drainage and allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.

Natural Remedies

If you have already noticed slaters on your pothos hanging plant, there are several natural remedies you can try to get rid of them:

Handpicking: If the infestation is not severe, you can manually remove slaters from your plant by handpicking them. Wear gloves and carefully pick off any visible slaters you see on the leaves or stems. Drop them into a container of soapy water to kill them.
Diatomaceous earth: Diatomaceous earth is a natural powder made from fossilized algae. Sprinkle a thin layer of diatomaceous earth around the base of your pothos plant. When slaters come into contact with this powder, it will dehydrate them and ultimately kill them.
Citrus peels: Slaters are repelled by the scent of citrus fruits. Place citrus peels, such as orange or lemon peels, around the base of your pothos hanging plant. The strong smell will discourage slaters from approaching the plant.
Neem oil: Neem oil is a natural insecticide that can be effective against slaters. Mix a few drops of neem oil with water in a spray bottle and mist your pothos plant, focusing on the areas where slaters are most prevalent. Repeat this process every few days until the infestation clears up.

Chemical Control

If the natural remedies mentioned above do not effectively eliminate the slater infestation on your pothos hanging plant, you may need to resort to chemical control methods. It is important to note that chemical pesticides should be used as a last resort and with caution, as they can also harm beneficial insects and other plants.

Insecticidal soap: Insecticidal soaps are effective against a wide range of pests, including slaters. Purchase a ready-to-use insecticidal soap from your local garden center and follow the instructions on the label for application. Be sure to thoroughly cover all parts of the plant, including the undersides of leaves.
Pyrethrin-based insecticides: Pyrethrin-based insecticides are derived from the chrysanthemum flower and are considered safe for use on plants. These insecticides can be sprayed directly onto the pothos plant to control slaters. Follow the instructions on the product label for proper application.

Conclusion

Slaters can pose a threat to the health and appearance of your pothos hanging plant if left untreated. Taking preventive measures, such as inspecting new plants and maintaining proper hygiene, can help prevent infestations from occurring. If you do notice slaters on your plant, try natural remedies like handpicking, diatomaceous earth, citrus peels, or neem oil before resorting to chemical control methods. Remember to always use chemicals with caution and follow the instructions on the product label. With a little patience and persistence, you can successfully get rid of slaters and restore your pothos hanging plant to its healthy state.