How to Get Rid of Crusader Bugs on Bigleaf Lupine Plant

Bigleaf lupine plants are beautiful and vibrant additions to any garden or landscape. However, they are susceptible to a variety of pests, including crusader bugs. Crusader bugs, also known as big-eyed bugs, are small predatory insects that feed on other insects, including aphids, caterpillars, and other pests. While crusader bugs can be beneficial in controlling certain pests, they can also become a nuisance when they start feeding on the leaves and flowers of the bigleaf lupine plant. In this article, we will discuss how to identify crusader bugs and how to get rid of them to protect your bigleaf lupine plants.

Identifying Crusader Bugs

Crusader bugs are small, oval-shaped insects with distinctive bulging eyes that give them their name. They can range in color from brown to green and may have markings on their bodies. Crusader bugs are predatory insects that feed on other insects by piercing their bodies and sucking out their fluids.

When crusader bugs feed on bigleaf lupine plants, they can cause damage to the leaves and flowers. You may notice small holes or yellow spots on the leaves, as well as wilting or distorted growth. Additionally, you may observe the presence of crusader bugs themselves on the plant, especially underneath the leaves or near the flower buds.

Natural Ways to Get Rid of Crusader Bugs

If you have noticed crusader bugs infesting your bigleaf lupine plants, there are several natural and chemical-free methods you can use to get rid of them. Here are some effective ways to control crusader bug populations:

1. Handpicking

One of the simplest ways to control crusader bugs is by handpicking them off your bigleaf lupine plants. Wear gloves and carefully inspect the leaves and stems for any signs of crusader bugs. Remove any bugs you find and drop them into a bucket of soapy water to prevent them from returning to the plant.

2. Beneficial Insects

Introducing beneficial insects that prey on crusader bugs can help control their population naturally. Ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps are all predators of crusader bugs and can be released into your garden to help keep their numbers in check.

3. Neem Oil

Neem oil is a natural insecticide that can be effective in controlling crusader bugs on bigleaf lupine plants. Mix neem oil with water according to the instructions on the product label and spray it onto the affected plant parts. Neem oil works by disrupting the feeding and reproductive behavior of insects like crusader bugs.

4. Garlic Spray

Garlic spray is another natural remedy that can help repel crusader bugs from your bigleaf lupine plants. 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 flowers of the plant to deter crusader bugs from feeding on them.

Preventing Future Infestations

Once you have successfully eliminated crusader bugs from your bigleaf lupine plants, it is important to take steps to prevent future infestations. Here are some preventive measures you can implement:

• Regular Inspection: Regularly inspect your bigleaf lupine plants for signs of pest infestations, including crusader bugs. Early detection can help prevent widespread damage.

• Pruning: Prune away any damaged or infested plant parts to reduce hiding places for pests like crusader bugs.

• Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of your bigleaf lupine plants to discourage pests from laying eggs in the soil.

• Companion Planting: Plant pest-repellent herbs and flowers near your bigleaf lupine plants to deter crusader bugs and other pests.

By following these natural methods and preventive measures, you can effectively control crusader bug infestations on your bigleaf lupine plants without resorting to harsh chemicals that may harm beneficial insects and pollinators in your garden. With care and diligence, you can enjoy healthy and thriving bigleaf lupine plants free from pesky pests like crusader bugs.