How to Get Rid of Lerps on Cleome Plant

Cleome plants are popular among gardeners because of their vibrant colorful flowers and resistance to pests and diseases. However, one pest that can cause serious damage to these plants is the lerp. Lerps are small, white, waxy insects that attach themselves to the undersides of leaves and suck sap from the plant. If left untreated, lerps can weaken the plant and cause it to die. In this article, we will discuss how to get rid of lerps on cleome plant.

Identifying Lerps on Cleome Plant

Lerps are small, white, waxy insects that attach themselves to the undersides of leaves. They look like small bumps or blisters and can be mistaken for a fungal disease. If you suspect your cleome plant has lerps, turn over the leaves and look for white or yellowish insects attached to them.

Methods for Getting Rid of Lerps on Cleome Plant

There are several methods for getting rid of lerps on cleome plants. Here are some effective methods:

1. Blast Them With Water

One of the easiest ways to get rid of lerps from your cleome plant is to blast them with water. Use a hose with a strong jet setting to spray the undersides of leaves where you see the lerps attached. This will knock them off and disrupt their feeding habits.

2. Prune Infested Leaves

If you notice that only a few leaves on your cleome plant are infested with lerps, you can prune those leaves off. This will remove the source of food for the lerps and prevent them from spreading to other parts of the plant.

3. Use Insecticidal Soap

Insecticidal soap is an effective way to get rid of lerps on cleome plants. It works by suffocating the insects and disrupting their feeding habits. Mix the insecticidal soap with water according to the instructions on the label and spray it on the undersides of leaves where you see the lerps attached. Repeat this process every seven to ten days until all the lerps are gone.

4. Use Neem Oil

Neem oil is another effective way to get rid of lerps on cleome plants. It works by disrupting the feeding habits of the insects and interfering with their growth and reproduction. Mix the neem oil with water according to the instructions on the label and spray it on the undersides of leaves where you see the lerps attached. Repeat this process every seven to ten days until all the lerps are gone.

Preventing Lerps on Cleome Plant

Preventing lerps from infesting your cleome plant is easier than getting rid of them. Here are some preventive measures:

• Keep your cleome plant healthy by watering it regularly and fertilizing it as needed.
• Inspect your cleome plant regularly for signs of pests and diseases.
• Remove any dead or damaged leaves from your cleome plant.
• Avoid overfertilizing your cleome plant as this can attract pests like lerps.
• Use companion planting to repel pests like lerps. Plants like marigold, lavender, and basil are known to repel pests.

FAQ

Are lerps harmful to humans?
No, lerps are harmless to humans.

Can I use chemical pesticides to get rid of lerps on my cleome plant?
Yes, you can use chemical pesticides, but they should be used as a last resort as they can harm beneficial insects and pollinators.

Can I use dish soap instead of insecticidal soap to get rid of lerps on my cleome plant?
No, dish soap can harm your plant. Use insecticidal soap specifically designed for use on plants.

Can I eat the flowers from my cleome plant if it has been treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil?
No, do not eat the flowers from your cleome plant if it has been treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Wait at least seven days after treatment before harvesting any edible parts of the plant.