How to Get Rid of Crusader Bugs on Coin Plant

Coin plants, also known as Chinese money plants or Pilea peperomioides, are becoming increasingly popular houseplants. They are easy to care for and have unique circular foliage that adds a touch of greenery to any room. However, like any other plant, they can fall victim to pesky pests. One such pest is the crusader bug. These tiny insects can cause significant damage to your coin plant if left untreated. In this article, we will discuss how to get rid of crusader bugs on coin plants.

What are Crusader Bugs?

Crusader bugs, also known as marmorated shield bugs, are small insects that belong to the stink bug family. They have a distinctive shield-shaped body that ranges in color from brown to green. They are typically found in gardens and can be identified by the foul odor they emit when disturbed.

Crusader bugs feed on the sap of plants, causing damage to leaves and stems. In addition to coin plants, they can also infest fruit trees, vegetables, and ornamental plants.

Signs of Crusader Bug Infestation

The first sign of a crusader bug infestation is the appearance of small, circular holes in the leaves of your coin plant. You may also notice wilted or yellowing leaves. If you inspect your plant closely, you may be able to spot the tiny insects themselves. They usually gather on the undersides of leaves.

How to Get Rid of Crusader Bugs

Fortunately, there are several ways to get rid of crusader bugs on your coin plant:

1. Handpicking

If you only have a few crusader bugs on your coin plant, you can try handpicking them off. Use a pair of tweezers or gloves to remove them from the plant and dispose of them in a sealed bag.

2. Insecticidal Soap

Insecticidal soap is a natural and effective way to get rid of crusader bugs on your coin plant. It works by suffocating the insects, causing them to die off. You can purchase insecticidal soap at your local garden center or make your own by mixing liquid dish soap with water. Spray the solution onto your plant, making sure to cover all surfaces, including the undersides of leaves.

3. Neem Oil

Neem oil is another natural insecticide that can be used to get rid of crusader bugs on your coin plant. It works by disrupting the insect’s hormonal system, causing them to stop feeding and eventually die off. Mix neem oil with water according to the instructions on the bottle and spray it onto your plant.

4. Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth is a fine powder made from the fossilized remains of diatoms. It works by dehydrating insects, causing them to die off. Sprinkle diatomaceous earth onto the soil around your coin plant and on the leaves themselves.

Preventing Crusader Bug Infestation

The best way to deal with crusader bugs on your coin plant is to prevent them from infesting in the first place. Here are some preventive measures you can take:

• Inspect any new plants before bringing them indoors
• Keep your plants healthy and well-watered
• Remove any fallen leaves or debris from around your plant
• Use yellow sticky traps to catch any incoming pests

FAQ

Can crusader bugs harm humans?

No, crusader bugs are not harmful to humans. However, they can emit a foul odor when disturbed.

Can I use chemical insecticides on my coin plant?

While chemical insecticides may be effective in getting rid of crusader bugs, they can also harm beneficial insects and pollute the environment. It’s best to use natural methods first and resort to chemical insecticides as a last resort.

Can I still eat fruit from a tree that has been infested with crusader bugs?

It’s best to avoid eating fruit from a tree that has been infested with crusader bugs. The bugs can leave behind a bitter taste and may also carry harmful bacteria.