How to Get Rid of Crusader Bugs on Dish Garden Plant

Dish garden plants are beautiful and a great way to bring nature indoors. However, they can also attract pests like crusader bugs. These tiny bugs are known for their destructive nature, as they can cause significant damage to your dish garden plant. In this article, we will discuss how to get rid of crusader bugs on dish garden plants.

What are Crusader Bugs?

Crusader bugs, also known as marmorated stink bugs, are a type of insect that can be found in gardens and homes across the world. These bugs are brownish-grey in color and have a shield-shaped body. They are about half an inch in length, and their name comes from the white markings on their antennae that resemble a crusader’s helmet.

Crusader bugs feed on plants by piercing them with their mouthparts and sucking out the juices. They can cause significant damage to plants, especially when present in large numbers.

Signs of Crusader Bug Infestation

The first sign of a crusader bug infestation is often the appearance of small holes on the leaves of your dish garden plant. These holes are caused by the bug’s feeding activity. You may also notice that your plant has become wilted or discolored, indicating that it is not receiving the nutrients it needs.

If you suspect that your dish garden plant has a crusader bug infestation, you can confirm it by closely examining the leaves and stems of the plant. Look for small brownish-grey insects with white markings on their antennae.

How to Get Rid of Crusader Bugs

Getting rid of crusader bugs on your dish garden plant requires a combination of physical removal and chemical treatment. Here are some steps you can take:

Step 1: Handpick Crusader Bugs

The first step is to handpick the bugs off your plant. This can be done by using a pair of tweezers or a small brush. Be sure to wear gloves to protect your hands from the bugs’ odor.

Step 2: Use Soapy Water

After you have removed as many bugs as possible, use soapy water to wash your plant thoroughly. Mix a few drops of dish soap into a spray bottle filled with water and spray the solution onto the plant. The soap will suffocate any remaining bugs and prevent them from feeding on your plant.

Step 3: Use Insecticides

If handpicking and using soapy water do not eliminate the crusader bug infestation, you may need to use insecticides. Look for an insecticide that is labeled for use on houseplants and follow the instructions carefully.

FAQ

Can crusader bugs harm humans?

Crusader bugs are not known to harm humans directly. However, they can produce a strong odor when disturbed that some people find unpleasant.

Can I prevent crusader bug infestations?

You can help prevent crusader bug infestations by keeping your dish garden plant healthy and free of debris. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil as a preventative measure.

Are there any natural remedies for crusader bugs?

Yes, you can use natural remedies such as neem oil or pyrethrin-based insecticides. These products are effective at controlling crusader bugs while also being safe for use around children and pets.

What should I do if my plant is severely damaged?

If your plant is severely damaged by crusader bugs, it may be best to remove it and start over with a new plant. This will help prevent the spread of the infestation to other plants in your home.

Conclusion

Crusader bugs can be a nuisance for dish garden plant owners, but with proper treatment, they can be eliminated. Handpicking, using soapy water, and insecticides are all effective ways to get rid of these pests. Remember to keep your plant healthy and free of debris to help prevent future infestations.