How to Get Rid of Slaters on Widows Tears Plant

Introduction

Widow’s Tears, also known as Tradescantia sillamontana, is a beautiful trailing plant that is popular among gardeners for its unique silver foliage. However, like many other plants, Widow’s Tears can be susceptible to pest infestations. One common pest that can wreak havoc on this plant is slaters. Slaters, also known as pill bugs or woodlice, are small gray-colored insects that feed on decaying organic matter and can cause damage to plants if left unchecked. In this article, we will discuss effective methods to get rid of slaters on your Widow’s Tears plant and ensure its healthy growth.

Identifying Slaters

Before we delve into the methods of pest control, it is important to properly identify slaters on your Widow’s Tears plant. Slaters are small, oval-shaped insects that have a segmented body and seven pairs of legs. They are typically gray in color and have a hard exoskeleton. They are commonly found in dark, damp areas and feed on decaying organic matter. If you notice these insects crawling around your plant or hiding beneath the foliage, it is likely that your Widow’s Tears plant is infested with slaters.

Prevention is Key

The best way to deal with any pest infestation is by preventing it from occurring in the first place. Here are some preventive measures you can take to keep slaters away from your Widow’s Tears plant:

Proper watering: Slaters thrive in damp conditions, so it is important to avoid overwatering your plant. Make sure the soil has good drainage and allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
Remove decaying matter: Slaters are attracted to decaying organic matter, so regularly remove any fallen leaves or dead plant material from the vicinity of your Widow’s Tears plant. This will minimize their food source and discourage them from infesting your plant.
Maintain good air circulation: Slaters prefer dark and damp environments, so it is important to provide good air circulation around your plant. Avoid overcrowding by spacing out your plants and ensure that the area around the plant is well-ventilated.
Natural predators: Encourage natural predators like birds, frogs, and lizards in your garden. These animals feed on slaters and can help control their population.

Organic Pest Control Methods

If preventive measures fail and your Widow’s Tears plant is already infested with slaters, there are several organic pest control methods you can employ:

Hand-picking: The simplest and most effective method of getting rid of slaters is by hand-picking them off your plant. Check the undersides of leaves, along stems, and in crevices where they might be hiding. Drop them into a bucket of soapy water to eliminate them.
Diatomaceous earth: Diatomaceous earth is a natural insecticide that is safe to use around plants and pets. Sprinkle a thin layer of diatomaceous earth around the base of your Widow’s Tears plant. When slaters come into contact with it, it dehydrates their bodies, leading to their demise.
Traps: Create simple traps using items found in your kitchen or garden. Place damp newspaper or cardboard near your plant during the night. Slaters are attracted to moist environments and will hide beneath these traps. In the morning, collect the traps and dispose of the insects.
Beneficial nematodes: Beneficial nematodes are microscopic organisms that prey on various soil-dwelling pests, including slaters. They can be purchased from garden centers or online stores. Dilute them in water according to the package instructions and apply the solution to the soil around your Widow’s Tears plant.

Chemical Pest Control Methods

If the infestation is severe or organic methods have not yielded satisfactory results, you may consider using chemical pest control methods. However, it is important to exercise caution and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Some chemical options include:

Insecticidal soap: Insecticidal soap is a low-toxicity option that can effectively control slaters. Thoroughly spray your Widow’s Tears plant, paying close attention to the undersides of leaves and stems where slaters are often found.
Botanical insecticides: Botanical insecticides derived from plants like pyrethrum or neem oil can be used to control slaters. Follow the instructions on the product label and apply the insecticide as directed.

Conclusion

Slaters can be a nuisance when they infest your Widow’s Tears plant, but with proper preventive measures and effective pest control methods, you can successfully get rid of them. Remember to regularly inspect your plant for signs of infestation, maintain good gardening practices, and employ organic pest control methods before resorting to chemical options. By taking these steps, you can ensure the health and beauty of your Widow’s Tears plant for years to come.