If you’re a plant enthusiast, you’re probably familiar with the velvet elvis plant. This beautiful plant is known for its dark green leaves and purple undersides, but it’s not immune to pests. One of the most common pests that can attack velvet elvis plants is slaters, also known as woodlice or pill bugs. These small crustaceans can quickly become a nuisance, but there are ways to get rid of them without harming your plant.
Slaters are small, grey or brown crustaceans that are commonly found in gardens and outdoor spaces. They’re also known as woodlice or pill bugs and belong to the same family as shrimp and crabs. Slaters are scavengers that feed on decaying organic matter, including dead plant material and wood.
One of the first signs of a slaters infestation is damage to the leaves of your velvet elvis plant. Slaters will eat small holes in the leaves, which can quickly become larger if left unchecked. You may also notice slaters crawling around on the soil or on the stems of your plant.
Getting rid of slaters on your velvet elvis plant requires a multi-step approach. Here are some tips for getting rid of these pests:
The first step in getting rid of slaters is to remove any decaying organic matter from around your plant. This includes dead leaves, fallen fruit, and any other debris that may be present. Slaters are attracted to decaying organic matter, so removing it can help discourage them from sticking around.
Slaters prefer moist environments, so it’s important to be careful when watering your velvet elvis plant. Avoid over-watering, as this can create a damp environment that’s perfect for slaters to thrive in. Instead, water your plant only when the top inch of soil is dry.
Diatomaceous earth is a natural powdery substance that’s made from the fossilized remains of organisms called diatoms. It’s safe for plants but deadly to slaters. Sprinkle diatomaceous earth around the base of your plant and on the soil surface. Be sure to wear gloves and a mask when handling diatomaceous earth, as it can be harmful if inhaled.
Another way to get rid of slaters is to introduce natural predators into your garden. For example, ground beetles and centipedes feed on slaters and can help control their population. You can purchase these predators online or at your local garden center.
A: While slaters can cause damage to the leaves of your velvet elvis plant, they’re not generally harmful to the health of the plant.
A: While chemical pesticides can be effective at getting rid of slaters, they should be used with caution. Pesticides can harm beneficial insects and may also be harmful to humans and pets.
A: Yes, you can prevent slaters from infesting your velvet elvis plant by removing decaying organic matter and avoiding over-watering. You can also introduce natural predators into your garden to help control their population.