Velvet plant, also known as Gynura aurantiaca, is a beautiful houseplant with dark green leaves covered in purple hairs. It is a popular choice among plant enthusiasts because of its unique foliage and easy care requirements. However, velvet plant is susceptible to infestations by slaters, also known as pill bugs or woodlice. Slaters are small grayish-brown insects that feed on decaying organic matter and can damage the leaves and stems of velvet plants. If you notice these pests on your velvet plant, it’s important to take action to get rid of them before they cause further damage.
Before you can start treating your velvet plant for slaters, it’s important to confirm that they are the culprit. Slaters are small, pill-shaped insects that are grayish-brown in color. They have seven pairs of legs and two antennae. Slaters are often found in damp environments and feed on decaying organic matter. If you see slaters crawling around your velvet plant, or notice small holes in the leaves or stems, it’s likely that they are the cause.
The first step in getting rid of slaters on your velvet plant is to remove any infested leaves or stems. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut off any parts of the plant that show signs of damage. This will help prevent the slaters from spreading and causing further damage to your plant.
Slaters thrive in damp environments, so one way to get rid of them on your velvet plant is to create a less hospitable environment for them. You can do this by reducing the amount of water you give your plant and avoiding overwatering. You can also place a damp cloth or paper towel around the base of the plant to create a moist environment that will attract the slaters. Once they have gathered on the cloth, you can simply remove it and discard the slaters.
There are several natural remedies that you can use to get rid of slaters on your velvet plant. One effective method is to sprinkle diatomaceous earth around the base of the plant. Diatomaceous earth is a natural substance that is made from the fossilized remains of diatoms, a type of microscopic algae. It works by dehydrating the slaters and causing them to die.
Another natural remedy is to use neem oil spray. Neem oil is a natural insecticide that is derived from the seeds of the neem tree. It works by disrupting the life cycle of insects and preventing them from reproducing. To use neem oil spray, mix 2 teaspoons of neem oil with 1 quart of water and spray it onto the leaves and stems of your velvet plant.
If natural remedies are not effective in getting rid of slaters on your velvet plant, you may need to use chemical insecticides. However, it’s important to use these products with caution, as they can be harmful to both humans and pets. Always read the label carefully before using any insecticide and follow the instructions closely.
A common insecticide used to control slaters is carbaryl. This product works by interfering with the nervous system of insects and causing them to die. To use carbaryl, mix it according to the instructions on the label and apply it to the leaves and stems of your velvet plant.
You can prevent slaters from infesting your velvet plant by keeping it in a dry environment and avoiding overwatering. You can also remove any decaying organic matter from around the base of the plant.
No, slaters are not harmful to humans or pets. They do not carry diseases and are not venomous.
While vinegar is a natural remedy that is often used to control pests, it is not effective in getting rid of slaters. Instead, you can try using diatomaceous earth or neem oil spray.
The time it takes to get rid of slaters on your velvet plant will depend on the severity of the infestation and the treatment method used. Natural remedies may take longer to work than chemical insecticides. It’s important to be patient and persistent in your efforts to get rid of the slaters.