Slaters are small, grey or brown insects that are commonly found in gardens and on plants. Also known as pill bugs or woodlice, they are often mistaken for insects but are actually members of the crustacean family. While slaters generally do not pose a threat to humans, they can be harmful to plants, including violas.
Slaters feed on decaying plant matter and can also consume healthy plant tissue. They prefer moist environments and are commonly found in areas with high humidity or damp soil. Unfortunately, viola plants are particularly vulnerable to slater damage because of their delicate leaves and stems.
If left unchecked, slaters can cause significant damage to a viola plant. They may eat through the plant’s leaves and stems, causing wilting and stunted growth. Additionally, slaters can attract other pests such as snails and slugs, which can further harm the plant.
Fortunately, there are several effective methods for getting rid of slaters on viola plants. Here are some tips:
Slaters like to hide in dark, moist places such as under rocks or in piles of debris. To prevent slaters from taking up residence in your garden, make sure to remove any debris such as fallen leaves or dead plant matter that may be lying around.
Slaters thrive in damp environments, so improving drainage around your viola plants can help deter them from taking up residence. Make sure that the soil around your plants is well-draining and that water does not accumulate around the roots.
Diatomaceous earth is a natural substance made from the fossilized remains of diatoms. It is an effective and safe way to control slaters on viola plants. Simply sprinkle the powder around the base of your plants and on the soil surface. The sharp edges of the diatomaceous earth will cut into the slaters’ exoskeletons, causing them to dehydrate and die.
If you prefer not to use diatomaceous earth, there are several natural insecticides that are effective against slaters. Neem oil, for example, is a plant-based insecticide that is safe for use on viola plants. Simply dilute the oil according to the package directions and spray it directly onto the affected areas of your plant.
You can also set traps to catch slaters and prevent them from damaging your viola plants. One effective trap is to place a damp newspaper or cardboard box near your plants at night. The slaters will be attracted to the moist environment and will crawl inside, where they can be easily disposed of in the morning.
A: No, slaters are not harmful to humans. They do not bite or sting and are generally considered harmless.
A: Yes, slaters can damage a wide variety of plants if left unchecked. They prefer moist environments and are commonly found in areas with high humidity or damp soil.
A: Diatomaceous earth is generally considered safe for pets as long as it is used as directed. However, it is important to keep pets away from the area while you are applying the powder.
A: While chemical insecticides can be effective against slaters, they may also harm beneficial insects and other wildlife in your garden. We recommend using natural methods such as diatomaceous earth or neem oil to control slaters on your viola plant.