How to Get Rid of Slaters on Aaron’s Beard Plant: A Complete Guide

Aaron’s beard plant, also known as stolonifera saxifrage, is a popular houseplant prized for its unique foliage and hardy nature However, these plants can fall prey to slaters, which are small crustaceans that can quickly damage your plant. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how to identify, prevent, and get rid of slaters on Aaron’s beard effectively

What are Slaters?

Slaters also called woodlice or pillbugs are tiny grayish-brown creatures from the crustacean family. They thrive in damp, dark environments and are commonly found in garden beds, under rocks or mulch, and around decaying matter. Their armored, segmented bodies give them a resemblance to miniature armadillos.

While slaters are not harmful to humans, they can wreak havoc on plants by chewing through leaves, stems, flowers, and roots. Let’s look at how to spot slaters and the damage they cause.

Identifying Slaters and Signs of Infestation

Catching slaters in the act is the best way to identify an infestation. Look for the crawling critters on the soil, mulch, and plant itself, especially at night when they are most active.

Here are some telltale signs of slaters on your Aaron’s beard:

• Irregular holes in leaves
• Silvery slime trails on foliage
• Wilting or dying leaves despite watering
• Damaged or eaten roots, flowers, and buds
• Presence of tiny grayish-brown bugs on taking a closer look

If you spot these warning signs, it means slaters have invaded and require prompt action.

Natural Ways to Get Rid of Slaters

When dealing with a slater infestation on Aaron’s beard, opt for gentle, non-toxic remedies before turning to harsh chemicals. Here are some effective natural methods:

Remove Them Manually

One of the simplest approaches is to manually pick off slaters from the plant and drop them into a bucket of soapy water to kill them. Do this regularly to control light infestations. It gets tedious for large-scale invasions though.

Use Barriers

Create physical barriers that prevent slaters from climbing onto the plant. Materials like diatomaceous earth, crushed eggshells, or coarse sand around the base of the plant make it harder for slaters to reach it. Copper tape also blocks slaters.

Promote Predators

Encourage natural predators like frogs, lizards, and beneficial insects that feed on slaters. Having a backyard pond or insect hotels provide habitats for them.

Apply Neem Oil

Neem oil interferes with slaters mating and feeding habits. Mix it with water and spray on the soil and plant. Reapply weekly.

Use Citrus Peels

Citrus peels contain oils that naturally deter slaters. Scatter fresh peels of oranges, lemons, grapefruits, etc. around the plant’s base. Replace them regularly as the aroma fades.

Let Soil Dry Out

Slaters need a moist environment to survive. Allow the top few inches of soil to dry out completely between waterings to make conditions less hospitable.

Use Beer

Bury tuna cans or yogurt cups filled with beer near affected plants. The yeasty smell lures slaters in where they drown. Empty out the dead ones daily.

Preventive Care for Aaron’s Beard Plants

While tackling an active slater infestation is important, prevention is just as vital to protect Aaron’s beard plants in the long run. Here are some tips:

• Inspect plants routinely to spot early signs

• Avoid overwatering and let soil dry out between waterings

• Ensure good drainage and aeration of soil

• Keep garden debris cleaned up to eliminate slater hiding spots

• Use fresh, sterile potting mix when repotting

• Add a thin layer of sand on top of soil to dehydrate slaters

• Rotate Aaron’s beard plants with other species

• Control weeds that provide alternative slater food sources

When to Seek Professional Help

In most cases, the methods described above will take care of a slater problem on your Aaron’s beard plant. However, if the infestation is severe and causing extensive damage, you may need to take professional help. Seek advice from your local nursery or garden center on chemical pesticides, baits, and traps specific for slater control. Always follow the product instructions carefully.

Maintaining a Healthy Aaron’s Beard Plant

The best defense against pests like slaters is a healthy, vigorous Aaron’s beard plant. Here are some care tips for your plant:

• Site it in bright, indirect sunlight

• Water when the top inch of soil is dry

• Mist the leaves regularly to increase humidity

• Use well-draining potting mix

• Fertilize monthly during spring and summer

• Prune off damaged leaves and stems

• Monitor for other pests like spider mites

• Repot when the roots fill up the container

With their appetite for destruction, slaters can quickly ravage an Aaron’s beard plant. Be vigilant and act promptly at the first signs of infestation. Implement humane remedies like handpicking, barriers, beneficial insects, and neem oil to get rid of slaters naturally. Along with prevention and good care, your Aaron’s beard will thrive slater-free for years to come.