How to Get Rid of Slaters on Ruby Red Plant

Introduction

Slaters, also known as woodlice or pillbugs, are small crustaceans that are commonly found in gardens and outdoor spaces. While they are generally harmless to humans, they can be quite destructive to plants, including the beautiful ruby red plant. If you have noticed slaters feasting on your ruby red plant and want to get rid of them, read on for some effective methods.

Identifying Slaters

Before we dive into the methods of getting rid of slaters, it is important to be able to identify them. Slaters are small, oval-shaped creatures that are typically dark gray or brown in color. They have segmented bodies and seven pairs of legs. They are often found hiding under decaying leaves or other debris in damp areas.

Prevention is Key

Preventing slaters from infesting your ruby red plant in the first place is always the best approach. Here are some preventative measures you can take:

Maintain a clean garden: Regularly clean up fallen leaves, debris, and other organic matter from your garden. Slaters thrive in damp environments, so keeping your garden clean and dry will make it less appealing to them.
Eliminate excess moisture: Ensure that your plants receive the right amount of water without creating excess moisture. Overwatering can create a damp environment that slaters love.
Remove hiding spots: Slaters like to hide under rocks, pots, and other objects in your garden. Regularly remove these hiding spots to discourage them from taking up residence near your plants.

Natural Remedies

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

Citrus peels: Slaters dislike the scent of citrus fruits. Scatter citrus peels, such as orange or lemon peels, around your ruby red plant. The strong scent will repel the slaters and discourage them from approaching.
Copper barriers: Slaters are repelled by copper. Place copper wire or tape around the base of your ruby red plant to create a barrier that slaters will not cross.
Diatomaceous earth: Diatomaceous earth is a natural powder made from fossilized algae. It is harmless to humans and pets but can be deadly to slaters. Sprinkle diatomaceous earth around your ruby red plant, focusing on the areas where slaters are most active. When the slaters come into contact with the powder, it will dehydrate them and eventually kill them.
Beer traps: Slaters are attracted to the smell of beer. Create a simple trap by burying a small container, such as a yogurt cup, in the soil near your ruby red plant. Fill it halfway with beer and cover it with a lid that has small holes for the slaters to enter. The slaters will be lured by the smell of the beer and drown in the liquid.

Chemical Options

If natural remedies do not provide satisfactory results, you may need to resort to chemical options. It is important to note that chemicals should be used as a last resort and with caution, as they can be harmful to beneficial insects and other wildlife. Here are some chemical options you can consider:

Insecticides: There are several insecticides available on the market that specifically target woodlice and pillbugs. Look for products containing active ingredients such as permethrin or cypermethrin. Follow the instructions carefully and apply the insecticide only to the affected areas of your ruby red plant.
Boric acid: Boric acid is another chemical option that can effectively eliminate slaters. Mix boric acid with water according to the instructions on the product label and spray it onto your ruby red plant. Be sure to wear protective gloves and avoid contact with your skin or eyes.

Conclusion

Slaters can be a nuisance when they invade your precious ruby red plant, but with the right methods, you can effectively get rid of them. Remember to start with preventative measures to keep slaters at bay, and if they have already infested your plant, try natural remedies before resorting to chemicals. By taking action promptly, you can protect your ruby red plant and ensure its continued health and beauty.