How to Get Rid of Crusader Bugs on Ginny Plant

If you have a ginny plant in your garden or home, you may have noticed tiny black bugs crawling on the leaves. These bugs are called crusader bugs or Murgantia histrionica. They are pests that feed on the sap of the ginny plant and can cause damage to the leaves and stems. If you want to get rid of crusader bugs on your ginny plant, here are some tips to help you out.

Identify the Crusader Bugs

Before you start treating the crusader bugs on your ginny plant, it’s important to identify them correctly. Crusader bugs are small, black insects that are about 1/2 inch long. They have reddish-orange markings on their wings and legs. You can easily spot them on the leaves of your ginny plant.

Use Insecticidal Soap

One of the most effective ways to get rid of crusader bugs is by using insecticidal soap. Insecticidal soap is a natural product that contains fatty acids that can kill the bugs by suffocating them. You can buy insecticidal soap at your local garden center or make your own by mixing water and liquid soap.

To use insecticidal soap, spray it directly onto the leaves and stems of your ginny plant, making sure to cover all the affected areas. Repeat this process every few days until you no longer see any crusader bugs on your plant.

Use Neem Oil

Neem oil is another natural product that can be used to get rid of crusader bugs on your ginny plant. Neem oil contains a compound called azadirachtin that can disrupt the feeding and mating habits of the bugs, ultimately killing them.

To use neem oil, mix it with water according to the instructions on the bottle and spray it directly onto the leaves and stems of your ginny plant. Repeat this process every few days until you no longer see any crusader bugs on your plant.

Use Pyrethrin

Pyrethrin is a chemical insecticide that can be used to get rid of crusader bugs on your ginny plant. Pyrethrin is a natural insecticide that is derived from the chrysanthemum flower. It works by attacking the nervous system of the bugs, causing them to become paralyzed and die.

To use pyrethrin, mix it with water according to the instructions on the bottle and spray it directly onto the leaves and stems of your ginny plant. Repeat this process every few days until you no longer see any crusader bugs on your plant.

Remove Infested Leaves

If you have a severe infestation of crusader bugs on your ginny plant, you may need to remove some of the affected leaves. This will help prevent the bugs from spreading to other parts of the plant and allow the remaining leaves to grow healthier.

To remove infested leaves, use a pair of scissors or pruning shears to cut them off at the stem. Make sure to dispose of the leaves in a sealed plastic bag or burn them to prevent the bugs from escaping and infesting other plants.

FAQ

Are crusader bugs harmful to humans?

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

How can I prevent crusader bugs from infesting my ginny plant?

You can prevent crusader bugs from infesting your ginny plant by keeping it healthy and well-watered. You can also apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to deter pests.

Can I use insecticidal soap on other plants besides ginny plants?

Yes, insecticidal soap is safe to use on most plants. However, it’s always a good idea to test a small area of the plant first to make sure it doesn’t cause any damage.

How long does it take for pyrethrin to kill crusader bugs?

Pyrethrin can kill crusader bugs within minutes of contact. However, it’s important to reapply the product every few days to ensure that all the bugs are eliminated.