How to Get Rid of Slaters on Trailing Jade Plant

Trailing Jade Plant, also known as Senecio jacobsenii, is a popular succulent that is loved for its cascading foliage and low maintenance requirements. However, like most plants, it is susceptible to pests, including slaters. Slaters, also known as woodlice or pill bugs, are small crustaceans that can cause damage to your Trailing Jade Plant if left unchecked. In this article, we will explore some effective methods to get rid of slaters and protect your beloved plant.

Understanding Slaters

Before we dive into the methods of eradication, it is important to understand slaters and their behavior. Slaters are not insects but are actually land-dwelling crustaceans. They are often mistaken for insects due to their appearance and behavior. These small creatures are typically gray or brown in color and have a segmented body with seven pairs of legs.

Slaters are primarily nocturnal and feed on decaying organic matter. They are attracted to moist environments and can often be found in damp areas of your garden or houseplants. While they do not pose a direct threat to humans or pets, they can cause damage to your Trailing Jade Plant by feeding on its leaves, stems, and roots.

Natural Methods of Control

When dealing with pests, it is always best to start with natural methods of control before resorting to chemical solutions. Here are some effective ways to get rid of slaters on your Trailing Jade Plant:

1. Remove Excess Moisture

As mentioned earlier, slaters are attracted to moist environments. By reducing excess moisture around your Trailing Jade Plant, you can make it less appealing for these pests. Ensure that the plant is not overwatered and that any standing water is removed from the pot or saucer.

2. Improve Drainage

Another way to prevent moisture buildup is by improving the drainage of your plant’s pot. Make sure that the pot has adequate drainage holes and use well-draining soil. This will help keep the soil drier, making it less attractive for slaters.

3. Create a Physical Barrier

Slaters are small creatures that can easily crawl onto your Trailing Jade Plant. To prevent them from reaching your plant, create a physical barrier. You can use copper tape or diatomaceous earth around the base of the plant to create an impassable barrier for slaters.

4. Provide Proper Ventilation

Good airflow can help reduce moisture levels and discourage slaters from taking up residence on your Trailing Jade Plant. Ensure that your plant is placed in a well-ventilated area, away from closed spaces or areas with poor air circulation.

5. Remove Organic Debris

Slaters thrive on decaying organic matter, so it is important to keep your plant’s surroundings clean. Regularly remove fallen leaves, dead plant material, and any other organic debris near your Trailing Jade Plant. This will eliminate their food source and make the environment less hospitable for slaters.

Chemical Control

If natural methods of control do not yield satisfactory results, you may need to resort to chemical solutions. However, it is important to exercise caution when using pesticides as they can harm beneficial insects and pollinators. Here are some options for chemical control:

1. Insecticidal Soap

Insecticidal soap is a low-toxicity pesticide that can be effective against slaters. It works by suffocating the pests and disrupting their cell membranes. Dilute the insecticidal soap according to the manufacturer’s instructions and spray it directly on the affected areas of your Trailing Jade Plant.

2. Pyrethrin-Based Insecticides

Pyrethrin-based insecticides are derived from chrysanthemum flowers and are considered relatively safe for use in gardens. These insecticides work by attacking the nervous system of slaters, causing paralysis and death. Follow the instructions on the product label and apply the insecticide to the affected plant parts.

3. Biological Control

Biological control involves using natural predators or parasites to control pest populations. While there are no specific biological controls for slaters, introducing beneficial insects like ground beetles or centipedes to your garden can help keep their population in check.

Conclusion

Slaters can be a nuisance when they infest your Trailing Jade Plant, but with the right methods of control, you can effectively eliminate them and protect your plant’s health. Start with natural methods such as removing excess moisture, improving drainage, creating physical barriers, providing proper ventilation, and removing organic debris. If these methods fail, consider using low-toxicity pesticides like insecticidal soap or pyrethrin-based insecticides. Remember to always follow the instructions on the product label and exercise caution when using pesticides. With a little effort and persistence, you can enjoy a healthy, pest-free Trailing Jade Plant for years to come.