How to Get Rid of Slaters on Society Garlic Plant

Society garlic (Tulbaghia violacea) is a popular perennial plant known for its beautiful purple flowers and garlic-like scent. It is commonly used as a border plant or in herb gardens. However, like any other plant, society garlic can be susceptible to pests, including slaters. Slaters are small crustaceans commonly found in damp environments and can cause damage to plants if not controlled. In this article, we will discuss effective methods to get rid of slaters on society garlic plants.

Identifying Slaters

Before discussing the methods to control slaters, it is essential to understand how to identify them. Slaters, also known as woodlice or pillbugs, are small crustaceans that measure about 1 cm in length. They have a segmented body with a hard exoskeleton and are usually gray or brown in color. Slaters are most active at night and tend to seek shelter in dark and damp places during the day.

Prevention is Key

Prevention is always better than cure, and the same applies when dealing with slaters on society garlic plants. Here are some preventive measures you can take:

1. Maintain Proper Drainage: Ensure that the soil around your society garlic plants has proper drainage. Slaters thrive in damp environments, so it is crucial to avoid overwatering the plants.

2. Remove Mulch: Slaters are attracted to decaying organic matter, such as mulch. Remove any excess mulch from around your society garlic plants to discourage slaters from taking up residence.

3. Clear Debris: Regularly clear away any fallen leaves or debris from the base of the plants. This will reduce the dampness and hiding spots that slaters prefer.

4. Create a Dry Zone: Consider creating a dry zone around your society garlic plants by using gravel or pebbles. Slaters are less likely to venture into dry areas, so this can act as a deterrent.

Natural Remedies to Control Slaters

If you already have slaters on your society garlic plants, there are several natural remedies you can try to control their population:

1. Handpicking: The simplest method of removing slaters is to handpick them from the plants. This method is time-consuming but effective for smaller infestations. Carefully inspect the foliage and stems of the society garlic plant and remove any slaters you find. Dispose of them away from the garden to prevent re-infestation.

2. Trapping: Another effective method is to create traps for slaters. Place damp newspaper or cardboard near the affected plants, and slaters will be attracted to the moist environment. Once they gather on the traps, collect and dispose of them. Repeat this process regularly until the infestation is under control.

3. Diatomaceous Earth: Diatomaceous earth is a natural powder made from fossilized remains of diatoms. It is abrasive to insects and causes them to dehydrate. Sprinkle diatomaceous earth around the base of the society garlic plants, creating a barrier that slaters will avoid crossing.

4. Garlic Spray: Garlic has natural insect-repellent properties and can be used to deter slaters. To make a garlic spray, crush several cloves of garlic and soak them in water overnight. Strain the liquid and mix it with an equal amount of water in a spray bottle. Spray this solution on the affected parts of the society garlic plant.

5. Beer Traps: Slaters are attracted to beer, making it an effective trap. Dig small holes around the affected plants and bury containers filled with beer up to their rims. The slaters will be lured by the scent of the beer and fall into the traps, where they will drown. Empty and refill the beer traps regularly.

Chemical Control Methods

If natural remedies do not provide satisfactory results, you may consider using chemical control methods. However, it is important to use pesticides responsibly and follow the instructions provided. Here are a couple of chemical options:

1. Insecticides: There are several insecticides available that are effective against slaters. Look for products containing active ingredients such as carbaryl or pyrethroids. Apply the insecticide according to the instructions on the label, taking care to protect yourself and other beneficial insects.

2. Boric Acid: Boric acid is a low-toxicity pesticide that can be used to control slaters. Mix boric acid powder with sugar and water to create a paste. Place this paste in small containers near the affected plants. Slaters will be attracted to the sweet scent of the sugar and consume the paste, ultimately leading to their demise.

Conclusion

Slaters can be a nuisance when they infest society garlic plants, but with these effective methods, you can successfully control their population. Remember to take preventive measures, such as maintaining proper drainage and removing mulch, to avoid future infestations. If natural remedies fail, chemical control methods can be considered as a last resort. By taking prompt action and implementing these strategies, you can ensure the health and beauty of your society garlic plants for years to come.