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How to Get Rid of Crusader Bugs on Fiddly Fig Plant

Updated: May 7, 2022

Fiddly fig plant is a popular indoor plant due to its attractive appearance and easy maintenance. However, it can be a target for pests like crusader bugs which can damage the plant’s leaves and hamper its growth. Crusader bugs are small, brown insects that feed on sap from the leaves of the fiddly fig plant. If left unchecked, they can cause significant damage to the plant. In this article, we will discuss how to get rid of crusader bugs on the fiddly fig plant.

Identify the Crusader Bugs

The first step in getting rid of crusader bugs is to identify them. Crusader bugs are small insects that are about 2-3mm long, and they have a brown color with light-colored markings on their wings. They are often found on the underside of leaves, where they feed on sap.

Remove Infested Leaves

Once you have identified the crusader bugs, the next step is to remove any infested leaves from the plant. Use a pair of clean scissors or pruning shears to cut off any leaves that have visible signs of infestation. This will help prevent the spread of the bugs to other parts of the plant.

Use Natural Remedies

There are several natural remedies that you can use to get rid of crusader bugs on your fiddly fig plant. Here are some effective methods:

Neem Oil Spray

Neem oil is a natural insecticide that can be used to kill crusader bugs. Mix one tablespoon of neem oil with one liter of water and spray the solution onto the affected areas of the plant. Repeat this process every few days until all the bugs are gone.

Soap Spray

Mix one tablespoon of liquid dish soap with one liter of water and spray onto the affected areas of the plant. The soap will suffocate the bugs and prevent them from feeding on the plant. Repeat this process every few days until all the bugs are gone.

Garlic Spray

Garlic is a natural insect repellent that can be used to keep crusader bugs away from your fiddly fig plant. Crush a few garlic cloves and mix them with one liter of water. Let the mixture sit for a few hours, then strain it and spray onto the affected areas of the plant. Repeat this process every few days until all the bugs are gone.

Consult a Professional

If natural remedies do not work or if the infestation is severe, it may be necessary to consult a professional pest control service. A professional will be able to provide more effective treatments that can quickly eliminate the crusader bug infestation.

FAQ

  1. What are crusader bugs?

Crusader bugs are small, brown insects that feed on sap from the leaves of the fiddly fig plant.

  1. How can I identify crusader bugs?

Crusader bugs are small insects that are about 2-3mm long and have a brown color with light-colored markings on their wings. They are often found on the underside of leaves.

  1. How can I get rid of crusader bugs?

You can get rid of crusader bugs by removing infested leaves, using natural remedies like neem oil or soap spray, or consulting a professional pest control service.

In conclusion, crusader bugs can be a nuisance for fiddly fig plants, but they can be eliminated with proper identification and treatment. By following these simple steps, you can keep your fiddly fig plant healthy and free from pests.