Zanzibar Gem or ZZ plant is a popular houseplant due to its low maintenance and striking appearance. However, it is not immune to pests, and one of the most common pests that attack the ZZ plant is slaters. Slaters, also known as pillbugs or woodlice, are small crustaceans that feed on decaying organic matter and can cause damage to the ZZ plant when they start to feed on its leaves.
If you have noticed slaters on your ZZ plant, it is important to act quickly to prevent further damage. In this article, we will discuss effective methods for getting rid of slaters on your ZZ plant.
Before you start treating your ZZ plant for slaters, it is important to confirm that the problem is indeed caused by slaters. Slaters are easy to identify – they are small, greyish-brown crustaceans with a hard exoskeleton and segmented bodies. They are often found hiding in dark, damp areas such as under rocks or inside flowerpots.
To confirm that your ZZ plant has been attacked by slaters, check for small holes or bite marks on the leaves. You may also notice slaters crawling around the base of the plant or under the soil.
If you prefer to use natural remedies to get rid of slaters on your ZZ plant, there are several options available.
Diatomaceous earth is a natural powder made from fossilized algae that can be used to control a wide range of pests, including slaters. It works by drying out the pests’ exoskeletons and causing them to die of dehydration.
To use diatomaceous earth on your ZZ plant, sprinkle a thin layer of the powder around the base of the plant and on the soil surface. Be sure to wear gloves and a mask when handling diatomaceous earth, as it can irritate the skin and lungs.
Garlic spray is another natural remedy that can be used to repel slaters from your ZZ plant. To make garlic spray, blend several cloves of garlic with water and strain the mixture into a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the leaves and soil of your ZZ plant, being careful not to saturate the soil.
Garlic spray works by emitting a strong odor that slaters find unpleasant, causing them to move away from the plant.
If natural remedies do not work, chemical treatments may be necessary to get rid of slaters on your ZZ plant. However, it is important to use these treatments with caution and follow all instructions carefully to avoid damaging the plant or harming yourself.
Insecticides can be effective in controlling slaters on your ZZ plant. Look for insecticides that are labeled for use on houseplants and contain active ingredients such as pyrethrin or imidacloprid. Follow the instructions carefully when applying the insecticide and avoid spraying it directly onto the leaves or flowers of the plant.
Bait traps are another option for controlling slaters on your ZZ plant. These traps work by luring the pests with a food source and trapping them inside. Look for bait traps that are specifically designed for slaters and follow the instructions carefully when setting them up.
Preventing slaters from attacking your ZZ plant in the first place is key to avoiding future infestations. Here are some tips to help prevent slaters from taking up residence in your ZZ plant:
While slaters are not typically harmful to ZZ plants, they can cause damage when they start to feed on the leaves. This can lead to small holes or bite marks on the leaves and may cause the plant to become weakened over time.
Slaters are not harmful to humans and do not bite or sting. However, they can be a nuisance when they invade homes or gardens in large numbers.
Look for small holes or bite marks on the leaves of your ZZ plant. You may also notice slaters crawling around the base of the plant or under the soil.
Yes, chemical treatments such as insecticides can be effective in controlling slaters on your ZZ plant. However, it is important to use these treatments with caution and follow all instructions carefully to avoid damaging the plant or harming yourself.