How to Get Rid of Slaters on Viola Plant

Introduction

Slaters, also known as woodlice or pill bugs, are small crustaceans that can often be found in gardens and flower beds. While they may seem harmless, they can actually cause damage to plants, including viola plants. If you’ve noticed slaters on your viola plant and want to get rid of them, this article will provide you with some effective methods to do so.

Identification

Before we discuss how to eliminate slaters from your viola plant, it’s important to correctly identify them. Slaters are usually dark gray or brown in color and have a segmented body with seven pairs of legs. They are about half an inch long and have a distinctive oval shape. Unlike insects, slaters are not harmful to humans or pets, but they can cause damage to plants by feeding on the leaves and stems.

Prevention is Key

The best way to deal with slaters on your viola plant is to prevent them from infesting in the first place. Here are some preventative measures you can take:

Remove debris: Slaters are attracted to moist and decaying organic matter, so make sure to clean up any fallen leaves or dead plant material near your viola plant. This will help create an unfavorable environment for them.
Proper watering: Overwatering your viola plant can create a damp environment that is ideal for slaters. Be sure to water your plant only when necessary and allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Improve drainage: Slaters thrive in damp conditions, so improving the drainage around your viola plant can help deter them. You can achieve this by adding organic matter, such as compost or peat moss, to the soil.

Natural Remedies

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

Beer trap: Slaters are attracted to the smell of beer. To create a beer trap, bury a shallow container, such as a jar lid, in the soil near your viola plant. Fill it with beer and leave it overnight. The slaters will be lured into the trap and drown in the beer.
Diatomaceous earth: Diatomaceous earth is a natural powder made from fossilized algae. Sprinkle it around your viola plant to create a barrier that will dehydrate and kill the slaters. Be sure to reapply after rain or watering.
Citrus peels: Slaters are repelled by the scent of citrus. Place citrus peels, such as orange or lemon peels, around your viola plant to keep them away. Replace the peels regularly to maintain their effectiveness.
Copper tape: Slaters are deterred by copper due to its electrical charge. Wrap copper tape around the base of your viola plant or create a barrier around the pot to prevent them from climbing up.

Chemical Control

If natural remedies do not effectively eliminate slaters from your viola plant, you may consider using chemical control methods as a last resort. However, it’s important to note that chemical pesticides can also harm beneficial insects and pollinators, so use them sparingly and follow the instructions carefully. Here are some options:

Insecticidal soap: Insecticidal soaps are made from fatty acids that can penetrate the exoskeleton of slaters and cause dehydration. Dilute the soap according to the instructions on the label and spray it directly on the slaters.
Pyrethrin-based insecticides: Pyrethrin is a natural insecticide derived from chrysanthemum flowers. It can be effective in controlling slaters. Follow the instructions on the label for application rates and safety precautions.

Conclusion

Slaters can be a nuisance for viola plants, but with the right strategies, you can effectively get rid of them. Remember to prioritize prevention by removing debris, improving drainage, and practicing proper watering techniques. If natural remedies fail, chemical control methods can be used as a last resort. Just be sure to use them responsibly and follow the instructions carefully to minimize harm to beneficial insects and pollinators. By taking these steps, you can keep your viola plant healthy and free from slater infestations.