Tropical page plants, also known as Schefflera actinophylla, are popular indoor and outdoor plants due to their lush foliage and ease of care. However, these plants are also prone to infestations by slaters, also known as woodlice or pillbugs. Slaters are not harmful to humans, but they can damage the roots and leaves of tropical page plants. In this article, we will discuss how to identify a slater infestation and how to get rid of slaters on tropical page plants.
Slaters are small, grayish-brown crustaceans that measure between 0.2 and 0.6 inches in length. They have a segmented body with seven pairs of legs and two antennae. Slaters are nocturnal and prefer to feed on decaying plant matter, but they will also eat the leaves and roots of healthy plants if food is scarce.
The first sign of a slater infestation is the presence of slaters in and around your tropical page plant. You may notice them crawling on the soil or the leaves of your plant. If you inspect the leaves closely, you may see small holes or bite marks where the slaters have been feeding.
Another sign of a slater infestation is the presence of white, powdery mildew on the leaves of your tropical page plant. This is caused by the excrement of the slaters, which can attract fungal spores.
If you have identified a slater infestation on your tropical page plant, there are several steps you can take to get rid of them.
Slaters prefer to feed on decaying plant matter, so removing any dead leaves or other debris from your plant can help reduce their food source. Use a pair of scissors to cut off any dead or yellowing leaves from your tropical page plant.
There are several natural insecticides that can be effective against slaters, such as diatomaceous earth, neem oil, and insecticidal soap. These products work by dehydrating the slaters or suffocating them.
To use diatomaceous earth, sprinkle a thin layer over the soil around your plant. Be sure to wear gloves and a mask when applying diatomaceous earth, as it can irritate your skin and lungs.
To use neem oil or insecticidal soap, mix the product according to the instructions on the label and spray it directly onto the leaves and stems of your tropical page plant. Be sure to cover all surfaces of the plant, including the undersides of the leaves.
You can also set up traps to capture the slaters. One effective trap is a shallow dish filled with beer. The slaters will be attracted to the beer and will crawl into the dish, where they will drown.
Another trap you can use is a rolled-up newspaper. Place the newspaper in a moist area near your tropical page plant. The slaters will crawl into the newspaper to hide, and you can dispose of it along with the slaters.
A: No, slaters are not harmful to humans. They do not bite or sting and are not known to transmit diseases.
A: While chemical insecticides can be effective against slaters, they can also harm beneficial insects and pollinators. It is best to try natural insecticides first and only use chemical insecticides as a last resort.
A: To prevent slater infestations, keep your tropical page plant healthy by providing it with adequate water, light, and nutrients. Avoid overwatering your plant, as this can create a moist environment that is ideal for slaters. You can also place a layer of gravel or sand on top of the soil to discourage slaters from crawling onto your plant.
Slaters can be a nuisance for tropical page plant owners, but with proper identification and treatment, they can be effectively managed. By removing decaying plant matter, using natural insecticides, and setting up traps, you can get rid of slaters and protect your tropical page plant from further damage. Remember to always wear gloves and protective gear when handling insecticides and to follow the instructions on the label carefully.