How to Get Rid of Lerps on Chamomile Plant

Chamomile is a beautiful, fragrant herb that is prized for its medicinal properties. However, it is not immune to pests and diseases like any other plant. One of the most common pests that affect chamomile plants is the lerp insect. These small, flat, oval-shaped insects attach themselves to the leaves and stems of the plant and suck out its sap. This can cause significant damage to the plant and even kill it if not treated promptly. In this article, we will discuss how to get rid of lerps on chamomile plants.

What are Lerps?

Lerps are small insects that belong to the family Psyllidae. They are usually found on the leaves and stems of plants and produce a protective covering over themselves made from their own excretions. This covering is called a lerp and provides them with protection from predators and environmental conditions.

Signs of Lerp Infestation

The first sign of a lerp infestation on your chamomile plant is the presence of small, white, waxy spots on the leaves and stems. As the infestation progresses, you will notice that the leaves start to turn yellow and drop off. If left untreated, the plant can become severely damaged and die.

How to Get Rid of Lerps on Chamomile Plant

1. Prune Infected Parts

The first step in getting rid of lerps on your chamomile plant is to prune off any infected parts of the plant. Use a pair of sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears to remove any leaves or stems that are covered in lerps or have turned yellow.

2. Use Insecticidal Soap

Insecticidal soap is an effective natural remedy for getting rid of lerps on your chamomile plant. Mix one tablespoon of insecticidal soap with one quart of water and spray the solution onto the affected parts of the plant. Be sure to cover both the top and bottom of the leaves and stems.

3. Apply Neem Oil

Neem oil is a natural insecticide that has been used for centuries to control a wide range of pests. Mix two tablespoons of neem oil with one quart of water and spray the solution onto the affected parts of the chamomile plant. Neem oil can also help prevent future lerp infestations.

4. Use Horticultural Oil

Horticultural oil is another effective natural remedy for getting rid of lerps on your chamomile plant. Mix two tablespoons of horticultural oil with one quart of water and spray the solution onto the affected parts of the plant. Horticultural oil works by suffocating the lerps and preventing them from breathing.

5. Introduce Natural Predators

Introducing natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings into your garden can help control lerp infestations. These insects feed on lerps and can significantly reduce their population.

Preventing Lerp Infestations

Prevention is always better than cure, and there are several things you can do to prevent lerp infestations on your chamomile plant.

• Keep your plants healthy by providing them with sufficient water, sunlight, and nutrients.
• Remove any dead or damaged plant material from the vicinity of your chamomile plant as it can attract pests.
• Keep an eye out for signs of pests or diseases on your plants and treat them promptly.
• Use organic fertilizers instead of chemical ones as they can harm beneficial insects that help keep pests in check.

FAQ

Are lerps harmful to humans?

No, lerps are not harmful to humans.

Can I use chemical pesticides to get rid of lerps on my chamomile plant?

It is not recommended to use chemical pesticides on chamomile plants as they can harm beneficial insects and contaminate the soil.

Can I still use chamomile leaves that have been affected by lerps?

It is not recommended to use chamomile leaves that have been affected by lerps as they may contain harmful chemicals from the insecticides used to treat them.

How often should I spray my chamomile plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil?

You should spray your chamomile plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil every 7-10 days until the lerp infestation has been eliminated.