Wandering Jew plants, scientifically known as Tradescantia zebrina, are popular houseplants due to their attractive foliage and low maintenance requirements. They are native to South America but can thrive indoors in various lighting conditions. However, like any other plant, wandering Jew also has its fair share of pest problems, and one of the most common pests is slaters. Slaters are small gray or brownish insects that feed on the leaves of the plant, leaving behind holes and damage. In this article, we will discuss how to get rid of slaters on wandering Jew plants.
Slaters, also known as pill bugs or roly-polies, are small crustaceans that belong to the family Armadillidiidae. They are commonly found in gardens and indoor plants and feed on decaying organic matter. Although they are not harmful to humans, they can cause significant damage to plants by feeding on their leaves.
The first sign of slaters infestation is the appearance of holes in the leaves of the wandering Jew plant. You may also notice a slimy trail left behind by the slaters as they move around the plant. In severe cases, the plant may start to wilt or die.
There are several ways to get rid of slaters on wandering Jew plants. Here are some effective solutions:
The first step in getting rid of slaters is to remove infested leaves from the plant. Use a pair of scissors or pruning shears to cut off any leaves that show signs of damage or have slaters crawling on them. Make sure to dispose of these leaves properly to prevent further infestation.
Slaters prefer a dry environment, so keeping the soil moist can discourage them from infesting your plant. Water your wandering Jew regularly, but make sure not to overwater it, as this can lead to root rot.
Diatomaceous earth is a natural insecticide that is effective in killing slaters. Sprinkle a thin layer of diatomaceous earth on the soil around your wandering Jew plant, making sure not to get it on the leaves. The sharp particles in the diatomaceous earth will pierce the slaters’ exoskeletons, causing dehydration and death.
Neem oil is another natural insecticide that can be used to get rid of slaters on wandering Jew plants. Mix one tablespoon of neem oil with one quart of water and spray the solution on the leaves and soil of your plant. Repeat this process every two weeks until the infestation is gone.
If the infestation is severe, you may need to use a pesticide to get rid of slaters on your wandering Jew plant. Choose a pesticide that is safe for indoor use and follow the instructions carefully. Make sure to keep your plant away from children and pets while using the pesticide.
A: No, slaters are not harmful to humans.
A: Slaters can cause significant damage to wandering Jew plants, but they are unlikely to kill them.
A: To prevent slaters from infesting your wandering Jew plant, make sure to keep the soil moist, remove any dead leaves or debris around the plant, and avoid overfertilizing.
A: No, vinegar is not effective in getting rid of slaters on wandering Jew plants.
A: Yes, birds, frogs, and toads are natural predators of slaters.