Live to Plant

How to Get Rid of Borers on Prayer Plant

Scroll down to article
Updated: July 4, 2023

Introduction

Prayer plants, scientifically known as Maranta leuconeura, are popular houseplants known for their beautiful foliage. However, like any other plant, they can be susceptible to pests. One common pest that can affect prayer plants is borers. Borers are small insects that feed on the stems and roots of plants, causing damage and even death if left untreated. In this article, we will discuss how to get rid of borers on prayer plants effectively.

Identifying Borer Infestation

Before we jump into the methods of getting rid of borers, it is important to first identify whether your prayer plant is infested with these pests. Here are some signs to look out for:

  1. Wilting Leaves: Borers can cause the leaves of your prayer plant to wilt and droop.

  2. Holes in Stems: Check the stems of your plant for small holes or tunnels created by the borers.

  3. Stunted Growth: If you notice that your prayer plant is not growing as it should or seems to be struggling, it might be due to a borer infestation.

  4. Presence of Borers: Finally, inspect your plant closely for the presence of borers. They are small, elongated insects that are usually white or brown in color.

If you observe any of these signs, it is likely that your prayer plant has been infested with borers and needs immediate attention.

Manual Removal

One effective way to get rid of borers on your prayer plant is through manual removal. This method involves physically removing the borers from the plant using a pair of tweezers or a toothpick. Here’s how you can do it:

  1. Inspect the Plant: Carefully examine your prayer plant for any signs of borer activity. Look for holes in the stems and any visible borers.

  2. Remove the Borers: Using tweezers or a toothpick, gently pick off the borers from the plant. Be careful not to damage the stems or roots in the process.

  3. Dispose of the Borers: After removing the borers, immediately dispose of them in a sealed bag or container. This prevents them from infesting other plants in your home.

  4. Monitor for Reinfestation: Keep a close eye on your prayer plant for any signs of reinfestation. If you notice any new holes or borers, repeat the manual removal process.

Neem Oil Treatment

Another effective method to get rid of borers on your prayer plant is by using neem oil. Neem oil is a natural insecticide derived from the seeds of the neem tree and has proven to be effective against a wide range of pests, including borers. Here’s how you can use neem oil to treat your infested prayer plant:

  1. Prepare Neem Oil Solution: Dilute neem oil according to the instructions on the product label. Typically, you will need to mix 1-2 tablespoons of neem oil with a gallon of water.

  2. Spray the Plant: Transfer the diluted neem oil solution into a spray bottle and thoroughly spray your prayer plant, focusing on the stems and leaves.

  3. Repeat Treatment: Repeat this neem oil treatment every 7-10 days for several weeks until all signs of borer infestation disappear. This ensures that any unhatched eggs or newly emerged borers are also eliminated.

Soil Treatment

Since borers can also affect the roots of prayer plants, it is important to treat the soil as well to eliminate these pests completely. Here’s how you can do it:

  1. Remove Infested Soil: Carefully remove the top layer of soil around your prayer plant, including any visible borers or larvae.

  2. Inspect the Roots: Examine the roots of your plant for any signs of borer activity. If you notice any tunnels or damage, gently remove the affected roots.

  3. Replace with Fresh Soil: Fill the pot with fresh, well-draining soil. This helps to prevent reinfestation and provides a healthy environment for your prayer plant to thrive.

  4. Watering and Care: After replacing the soil, water your prayer plant as usual and continue to provide it with proper care to promote recovery and prevent future infestations.

Conclusion

Borers can be a serious threat to the health and vitality of your prayer plant. However, with prompt action and the right treatment methods, you can effectively get rid of these pests and save your beloved houseplant. Remember to regularly inspect your prayer plant for any signs of infestation and take immediate action to prevent further damage. By following the manual removal technique, using neem oil, and treating the soil, you can ensure that your prayer plant remains healthy and pest-free.

Related Posts:

Prayer Plant