Uninvited visitors like lice tend to infest Baobabs – particularly when they are kept outdoors. There are several ways to cope with these little “pests”. I have not yet tested some of the methods listed below – but to me they sound worthwhile to be shared.
A very simple way to ward off lice is to treat the affected Baobab with a targeted jet of water. If repeated several times it may help to get rid of the lice.
“Useful” insects can be exposed at or near the Baobabs. Among the useful insects are, for example, earwigs, ladybugs and lacewings. In order to convince earwigs to stay next to the Baobabs put some wood-wool in a flower pot and position it near the infested plant.
Or place the afflicted Baobab between plants with a high percentage of essential oils such as lavender. With the strong smell of the essential oils pests are held at bay. Savory is also said to be very helpful.
Another natural method used is nettle extract. Take one kilogram of nettle leaves and soak them for one day in 10 liters of water. The nettles release their toxins into the water. Take the mixture and spray – undiluted – onto the Baobab leaves. The manure left from the nettles can be used as fertilizer for the Baobabs or other plants (please keep in mind that Baobabs do not really need huge amounts of fertilizer…). The manure strengthens the plants and prevents further infestation by pests. After a week of applying the nettle extract the lice should be gone. I have not tried the nettle method myself yet.
Soft soap (without perfume) is another agent helpful in fighting lice on Baobabs. Dissolve one tablespoon of soap in one liter of water and apply to the affected plants. Instead of soap you could use dish-washing soap. In order to enhance the effect – add one tablespoon of alcohol. However, this mixture could leave brown spots on the leaves. I have not tested this method myself so far.
And one could apply the usual chemical agents found at hardware stores or chemists or nurseries on the affected baobabs. Most are poisons that act in a “systemic” way. The plants absorb the applied toxin and spread it through their system. Lice sitting on the leaves and stems feeding on the plants automatically absorb the toxines, too.
The methods listed above are best applied as soon as lice are spotted on Baobabs in order to prevent the spreading of them. Spraying Baobabs is done best early in the mornings or in the evenings and if possible under stable weather conditions without wind.
The baobab tree, with its massive trunk and sprawling canopy, is an iconic image of the African savanna. These majestic trees can live for thousands of years and provide food, water, shelter, and medicine for both wildlife and people. However, baobab trees are susceptible to pest problems just like any other plant. One common baobab tree pest is the slater, also known as the woodlouse or pill bug. If left unchecked, slaters can wreak havoc on baobab trees, so controlling these pests is crucial for the health of this keystone African species. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore different methods for getting rid of slaters on baobab trees.
What are Slaters and How Do They Damage Baobab Trees?
Slaters are small, grayish-brown crustaceans with segmented, rounded bodies that enable them to curl up into a defensive ball. Although they are not insects, these terrestrial invertebrates are closely related to shrimp and crabs. Slaters thrive in moist environments where they feed on decaying plant material. They do not pose any risks to human health, but can be destructive garden and agricultural pests.
Slaters use their tiny mandibles to feed on tender plant tissues, including the stems, leaves, roots, and fruits of baobab tree seedlings and saplings This damage stunts the growth of young trees Heavy slater infestations can even completely girdle and kill small baobab trees. On mature baobabs, slaters target the bark, stems, leaves, and roots, leading to reduced vigor and health. Severe slater damage makes baobab trees more susceptible to fungal infections and other secondary invaders. Left unchecked, slaters can eventually kill even huge, ancient baobab trees.
Effective Organic Methods to Control Slaters on Baobab Trees
When dealing with slaters, it is best to start with organic, non-toxic control methods to avoid harming baobab trees or the surrounding ecosystem. Here are some of the most effective organic slater management techniques:
Remove Excess Mulch and Leaf Litter
Slaters thrive in the moist, decaying organic matter found in mulch and leaf litter. Regularly remove fallen leaves, wood debris, compost, and excess mulch from around the base of baobab trees to eliminate slater habitat.
Improve Drainage
Slaters need moisture to survive Improve drainage around baobab trees by amending dense or clay soils with organic material like compost. Also, make sure baobabs are planted at an appropriate depth to avoid waterlogged root zones.
Encourage Natural Predators
Ground beetles, centipedes, spiders, toads, and lizards help control slater populations Create habitat to attract these predators by having a diversity of vegetation and avoiding pesticide use
Apply Diatomaceous Earth
The sharp silica particles in diatomaceous earth tear apart the waxy cuticle on slaters’ exoskeletons, causing fatal dehydration. Lightly dust diatomaceous earth on the soil around baobab trees. Reapply after rainfall.
Use Neem Oil Sprays
Neem oil insecticide kills slaters on contact while also deterring future infestations. Mix neem oil with water according to package directions and thoroughly spray tree stems, leaves, and soil.
Set Traps
Place overturned grapefruit or orange peels around baobabs to attract slaters seeking food and moisture. Collect and dispose of the accumulated slaters daily. Sticky traps or shallow cans filled with beer also capture sizable numbers of slaters.
Chemical Slaters Treatments for Severe Baobab Tree Infestations
For serious slater infestations, chemical treatments may be warranted as a last resort to save valuable baobab trees. Always use pesticides safely according to label directions. Some chemical options for severe slater problems include:
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Insecticidal soaps – potassium salts of fatty acids that penetrate and disrupt cell membranes. Spray on baobab leaves, stems, and soil.
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Pyrethrum insecticides – Made from chrysanthemum flowers, these chemicals disable the nervous systems of target pests.
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Borax – This mineral detergent is a stomach poison for slaters. Sprinkle powdered borax mixed with sugar around infested baobab trees.
Prevention Is the Best Long-Term Slater Control Strategy
Once slaters have been successfully controlled, take steps to prevent future infestations including:
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Maintain vigilance and monitor for signs of slaters on a regular basis.
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Eliminate excess organic matter and improve drainage to reduce suitable slater habitat.
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Promote populations of slater predators like beetles, centipedes, and lizards.
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Address any stress factors impacting tree health such as drought, disease, or nutrient deficiencies.
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Plant baobab seedlings and saplings in locations with full sun exposure to avoid the moist, shady conditions favored by slaters.
With integrated pest management combining prevention, organic control, and targeted chemical use only when absolutely needed, you can protect your baobab trees from damage while also conserving populations of these iconic African treasures. Eliminating slaters takes persistence and dedication, but it is well worth the effort to preserve majestic baobab trees for future generations.
“Baobabs – Icons of the Savannah”
Publication available in English and German. For more information click on the photo, please.
Video: “Baobabs – why they look the way they do…”
A short video with an attempt to explain why they look the way they do… To watch click on the photo, please.
How To Treat A Tree That’s Infested With Borers And Slaters
FAQ
Can a tree with borers be saved?
What damage can slaters do?
How do you get rid of tree borers naturally?
How to sow baobab tree seeds?
When it comes to sowing baobab tree seeds, timing and preparation are key factors for ensuring successful growth. Here are some steps to follow when sowing baobab tree seeds: Seed Preparation: Before sowing, soak the baobab tree seeds in water for 24 hours to soften the hard outer shell and enhance germination.
How to store baobab tree seeds?
Here are some key tips for storing baobab tree seeds: Dry Environment: Baobab tree seeds should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mold growth and seed spoilage. Airtight Container: Place the baobab tree seeds in an airtight container to protect them from humidity and pests.
Do baobab seeds need a lot of help?
Baobab (Adansonia sp.) seeds need a bit of help to germinate on-demand, at home. They have an incredibly hard seed skin that needs to be penetrated mechanically to allow the water in and start the magic. We also show how to help the young plant out of the seed shell before the trapped seedling starts to rot inside.
How do I choose the right soil for a baobab?
Although baobabs can grow in the strangest of places, there are a few criteria you should consider when choosing the right soil: baobabs do best in somewhat sandy soil that allows good water drainage. Nevertheless, they need “mass” in the soil that allows them to root well.