How to Get Rid of Slaters on Trailing Ice Plant

Introduction

Trailing ice plant (Delosperma cooperi) is a popular ground cover plant known for its vibrant and colorful flowers. It is a low-maintenance plant that can tolerate drought and poor soil conditions, making it a favorite choice for many gardeners. However, like any other plant, trailing ice plant is also susceptible to pests, and one common pest that can cause damage to this plant is slaters.

Slaters, also known as woodlice or pillbugs, are small crustaceans that are often found in damp environments such as under rocks or decaying organic matter. They are not insects but are closely related to lobsters and crabs. While they typically feed on decaying plant material, they can also damage living plants by feeding on leaves and stems. If you have noticed slaters on your trailing ice plant and want to get rid of them, follow these steps.

Step 1: Identify the Problem

Before taking any action, it is important to properly identify the pest. Slaters are small, grayish-brown creatures with oval-shaped bodies. They have segmented armor-like shells and seven pairs of legs. Unlike insects, slaters do not have wings and cannot fly. They are often found in moist areas, especially during periods of high humidity or after rainfall.

Step 2: Remove Excess Moisture

Slaters thrive in damp environments, so reducing excess moisture around your trailing ice plant is crucial in preventing their infestation. Avoid overwatering the plant and ensure that the soil has good drainage. If the soil stays consistently wet, consider amending it with organic matter to improve drainage.

Additionally, avoid watering the plant late in the evening as it may not have enough time to dry before nightfall, creating a favorable environment for slaters. Instead, water your trailing ice plant in the morning to allow it to dry out during the day.

Step 3: Clean Up Debris

Slaters are attracted to decaying organic matter, so removing any fallen leaves, dead plants, or other debris from around your trailing ice plant can help deter them. Regularly clean the area around the plant and ensure that there are no hiding places for slaters, such as piles of mulch or rocks.

Step 4: Create a Barrier

To prevent slaters from reaching your trailing ice plant, create a barrier around it. You can use materials such as diatomaceous earth or crushed eggshells. These substances have sharp edges that can deter slaters from crawling over them. Sprinkle them around the base of your plant, focusing on areas where slaters are most likely to enter.

Step 5: Use Natural Repellents

There are several natural repellents that can help keep slaters away from your trailing ice plant. One option is to use garlic spray. To make the spray, blend a few cloves of garlic with water and strain the mixture. Transfer it to a spray bottle and apply it to the leaves and stems of your plant. The strong smell of garlic will help repel slaters.

Another natural repellent is neem oil. Neem oil is derived from the neem tree and has insecticidal properties. Mix a few drops of neem oil with water and spray it on your trailing ice plant. This will not only repel slaters but also deter other pests.

Step 6: Introduce Natural Predators

If the infestation persists despite your efforts, consider introducing natural predators of slaters into your garden. Ground beetles and centipedes are known to feed on slaters and can provide effective control. You can attract these beneficial insects by creating habitats for them, such as placing rocks or logs in your garden.

Conclusion

Slaters can be a nuisance to your trailing ice plant, but with these steps, you can effectively get rid of them. Remember to identify the problem, remove excess moisture, clean up debris, create a barrier, use natural repellents, and introduce natural predators if necessary. By taking these preventive measures and implementing natural control methods, you can protect your trailing ice plant from slater infestations and enjoy its beauty for years to come.