How to Get Rid of Crusader Bugs on Chinese Money Plant

Chinese money plant or Pilea peperomioides is a popular houseplant that is easy to care for and adds beauty to any room. However, one common problem that many plant owners face is the infestation of crusader bugs. These tiny pests can cause significant damage to your plant if left untreated. In this article, we will discuss how to get rid of crusader bugs on your Chinese money plant.

Identifying Crusader Bugs

Crusader bugs, also known as red-banded leafhoppers, are small insects that are about 1/4 inch long. They have red and black bands on their wings and feed on the sap of plants. The damage they cause is usually noticed as brown or yellow spots on the leaves of the plant. If you notice these symptoms on your Chinese money plant, it’s likely that you have a crusader bug infestation.

Treatment Options

There are several ways to get rid of crusader bugs on your Chinese money plant. Here are some effective treatment options:

1. Neem Oil

Neem oil is an effective natural insecticide that can help eliminate crusader bugs from your Chinese money plant. It works by disrupting the life cycle of the insects and preventing them from reproducing. Mix 1 tablespoon of neem oil with 1 quart of water and spray the solution on the affected parts of the plant. Repeat every 2-3 days until the infestation is gone.

2. Insecticidal Soap

Insecticidal soap is another effective treatment option for crusader bugs. It works by suffocating the insects and disrupting their cell membranes. Mix 2-3 tablespoons of insecticidal soap with 1 quart of water and spray the solution on the affected parts of the plant. Repeat every week until the infestation is gone.

3. Pyrethrin Spray

Pyrethrin spray is a synthetic insecticide that is derived from chrysanthemum flowers. It works by attacking the nervous system of the insects and killing them on contact. Spray the solution on the affected parts of the plant and repeat every 2-3 days until the infestation is gone.

4. Isopropyl Alcohol

Isopropyl alcohol is a common household item that can be used to get rid of crusader bugs on your Chinese money plant. Mix equal parts of isopropyl alcohol and water in a spray bottle and spray the solution on the affected parts of the plant. Repeat every 2-3 days until the infestation is gone.

Prevention Tips

Preventing crusader bugs from infesting your Chinese money plant is much easier than treating an infestation. Here are some prevention tips:

• Inspect new plants before bringing them indoors to make sure they are free of pests.
• Keep your plant healthy by watering it properly and providing it with the right amount of sunlight.
• Shake your plant gently every few days to dislodge any insects that may be hiding in the leaves.
• Use sticky traps to catch any flying insects that may be attracted to your plant.

FAQ

Are crusader bugs harmful to humans?

No, crusader bugs are not harmful to humans. They do not bite or sting and are not known to transmit any diseases.

Can I use household vinegar to get rid of crusader bugs?

While household vinegar may help repel crusader bugs, it is not an effective treatment option for an infestation. It’s best to use one of the treatment options mentioned above.

Will getting rid of crusader bugs harm my Chinese money plant?

No, getting rid of crusader bugs will not harm your Chinese money plant. It’s important to choose a treatment option that is safe for your plant and follow the instructions carefully.

How long does it take to get rid of crusader bugs?

The time it takes to get rid of crusader bugs depends on the severity of the infestation and the treatment option used. It can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to completely eliminate the infestation.