How to Get Rid of Crusader Bugs on Dancing Dolphin Plant

Dancing Dolphin plant (Senecio peregrinus) is a unique succulent that has become incredibly popular among plant enthusiasts. Its leaves look like tiny jumping dolphins, giving it a whimsical appearance. However, like every other plant, it is susceptible to pests and diseases, and one of the most common pests that can attack your Dancing Dolphin plant is the Crusader bug.

Crusader bugs are tiny insects that feed on the sap of plants. They are also known as Chrysocoris stollii and have a distinctive yellow and black coloration with a pointed body shape. These insects can cause severe damage to your Dancing Dolphin plant if left unchecked. In this article, we will discuss how to get rid of crusader bugs on your Dancing Dolphin plant.

Identify the Crusader Bugs

Before you start treating your Dancing Dolphin plant for pests, you must ensure that the insects you are dealing with are indeed crusader bugs. Look for yellow and black insects on your plant’s leaves, stems, or flowers. You may also notice tiny black dots on the leaves, which are their feces.

Use Natural Remedies

If you have only a few crusader bugs on your Dancing Dolphin plant, you can try using natural remedies to eradicate them. Here are some effective natural remedies to get rid of crusader bugs:

• Neem oil – Neem oil is a natural insecticide that can repel and kill crusader bugs. Mix one tablespoon of neem oil with one liter of water and spray it on your Dancing Dolphin plant.
• Diatomaceous earth – Diatomaceous earth is a fine powder made from the fossilized remains of diatoms. It can be used as a natural pesticide to kill crusader bugs. Sprinkle diatomaceous earth around the base of your plant.
• Garlic spray – You can make a homemade garlic spray by crushing a few garlic cloves and mixing them with water. Strain the mixture, add a few drops of dish soap, and spray it on your Dancing Dolphin plant.

Use Chemical Insecticides

If the natural remedies do not work, you can resort to using chemical insecticides. However, it is essential to choose a product that is safe for your plant and effective against crusader bugs. Here are some chemical insecticides you can use:

• Insecticidal soap – Insecticidal soap is a mild pesticide that can kill crusader bugs without harming your Dancing Dolphin plant. Spray the insecticidal soap on your plant’s leaves, stems, and flowers.
• Pyrethrin – Pyrethrin is a natural insecticide derived from chrysanthemum flowers. It can kill crusader bugs on contact. Mix pyrethrin with water and spray it on your plant.

Prevent Future Infestations

Once you have successfully eradicated crusader bugs from your Dancing Dolphin plant, it is crucial to take measures to prevent future infestations. Here are some tips to help you prevent crusader bugs from attacking your plant:

• Inspect new plants – Before bringing new plants home, inspect them for pests and diseases.
• Keep the plant clean – Clean your Dancing Dolphin plant regularly by wiping its leaves with a damp cloth.
• Monitor the plant – Keep an eye on your plant to detect any signs of pest infestation early.
• Isolate infected plants – Isolate any infected plants to prevent the spread of pests to other plants.

By following these tips, you can keep your Dancing Dolphin plant free from crusader bugs and other pests.

FAQ

Can crusader bugs harm humans?

Crusader bugs are not harmful to humans. However, they can cause skin irritation if they come in contact with your skin.

Can I use essential oils to get rid of crusader bugs?

Yes, you can use essential oils like peppermint, eucalyptus, and tea tree oil to repel crusader bugs. Mix a few drops of the essential oil with water and spray it on your plant.

How often should I apply insecticides to my Dancing Dolphin plant?

Follow the instructions on the insecticide label to determine the frequency of application. Generally, it is recommended to apply insecticides every seven to ten days until the infestation is eradicated.