How to Get Rid of Slaters on Vinca Plant

Vinca plants, also known as periwinkle, are popular because of their attractive flowers and low maintenance needs. However, they can also be a target of slaters or pill bugs, which can cause damage to the plant if left unchecked. Slaters feed on decaying organic matter and can damage the roots and stems of the vinca plant. Fortunately, there are several methods to get rid of slaters from your vinca plant.

Identify the Problem

Before considering any control methods, it’s important to confirm that your vinca plant is indeed infested with slaters. Slaters are small, oval-shaped bugs that have hard shells and segmented bodies. They are typically about 1 cm long and have a greyish-brown color. Check under the leaves and around the base of the plant for any signs of slaters.

Natural Control Methods

One effective method to control slaters on vinca plants is by using natural remedies. Here are some natural methods you can try:

• Remove hiding places: Slaters often hide in mulch, debris or other decaying organic matter. Remove these hiding places near your vinca plant to make it less attractive for them.
• Watering: Watering your vinca plant during the day can help reduce the humidity that slaters prefer.
• Handpicking: If you only have a few slaters on your plant, you can remove them by handpicking them off the plant and releasing them away from your garden.
• Barriers: You can create a barrier around your vinca plant using diatomaceous earth or crushed eggshells. These materials are sharp and abrasive and can deter slaters from climbing onto your plant.

Chemical Control Methods

If natural remedies fail, you may need to use chemicals to get rid of slaters on your vinca plant. Here are some chemical control methods you can try:

• Insecticides: Use insecticides that contain carbaryl, pyrethrin or spinosad to control slaters. Follow the instructions on the label carefully and apply the insecticide directly to the plant and soil around it.
• Baits: You can use baits that contain boric acid or metaldehyde to attract and kill slaters. These baits should be placed near the base of your vinca plant.

Preventing Future Infestations

After successfully getting rid of slaters on your vinca plant, it’s important to take measures to prevent future infestations. Here are some preventive measures you can take:

• Remove hiding places: As mentioned earlier, remove any hiding places around your vinca plant where slaters can thrive.
• Reduce moisture: Water your plant early in the day to reduce humidity levels.
• Prune your plant: Prune your vinca plant regularly to remove any dead or decaying leaves or stems that can attract slaters.
• Provide adequate drainage: Ensure that your pot or garden bed has proper drainage to avoid waterlogging, which can create a favorable environment for slaters.

Conclusion

Slaters can be a nuisance for vinca plants, but with proper identification and control methods, you can get rid of them and prevent future infestations. Natural remedies like handpicking and barriers are great options, but if they fail, you may need to resort to chemical methods. Remember to take preventive measures to keep your vinca plant healthy and free from slaters.

FAQ

Q: Are slaters harmful to humans?

A: No, slaters are not harmful to humans. They do not bite or sting and are generally considered harmless.

Q: Can I use vinegar or salt to get rid of slaters on my vinca plant?

A: While vinegar and salt can be effective in killing slaters, they can also harm your vinca plant. It’s best to use natural remedies like handpicking or barriers before resorting to chemical methods.

Q: How often should I water my vinca plant?

A: Vinca plants prefer well-drained soil and should be watered only when the top inch of soil is dry. Watering once or twice a week is usually sufficient.