How to Get Rid of Lerps on Dew Plant

Dew plants, also known as lily of the valley shrubs, are popular ornamental plants that are commonly found in gardens and outdoor spaces. They are often grown for their attractive foliage and delicate, bell-shaped flowers. However, these plants are prone to infestation by pests such as lerps. Lerps are small, winged insects that feed on the sap of dew plants, causing damage to leaves and reducing the overall health of the plant. In this article, we provide tips on how to get rid of lerps on dew plant.

Identify the Pest

Before taking any action, it is important to identify the pest responsible for the damage on your dew plant. Lerps are small, brown insects that resemble tiny brown bumps or blisters on the surface of leaves. They usually congregate on the undersides of leaves and can be spotted easily by gently lifting a leaf.

Natural Control Methods

There are several natural control methods that can be used to get rid of lerps on dew plant. These methods include:

Pruning

Pruning is a simple and effective way of removing lerps from dew plants. Use sharp pruning shears to cut off infected plant parts, including leaves and stems. Make sure to dispose of pruned material far away from your garden to prevent the spread of pests.

Neem Oil

Neem oil is a natural insecticide that can be used to control lerps on dew plant. Mix neem oil with water according to the manufacturer’s instructions and spray the solution onto infected parts of the plant. Repeat application every 2-3 days until all signs of infestation have disappeared.

Soap Solution

A mild soap solution can also be used to get rid of lerps on dew plant. Mix liquid soap with water in a spray bottle and spray onto infected plant parts, making sure to cover both sides of leaves. Leave the solution on for a few minutes before rinsing with water.

Chemical Control Methods

If natural control methods fail to get rid of lerps on dew plant, you can resort to chemical control methods. However, be cautious when using chemicals as they can damage the plant and harm beneficial insects. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using chemicals. Here are some chemicals that can be used to control lerps on dew plant:

Imidacloprid

Imidacloprid is a systemic insecticide that is effective in controlling lerps on dew plant. It is available in both liquid and granular forms, and can be applied directly to the soil or sprayed onto the plant.

Malathion

Malathion is a contact insecticide that can be used to control lerps on dew plant. It should be applied directly to infected areas of the plant and repeated every 7-10 days until all signs of infestation have disappeared.

Preventing Infestation

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips on how to prevent lerps infestation on dew plant:

• Regularly inspect your plants for signs of pests and disease.
• Avoid overcrowding plants as this can create favorable conditions for pests.
• Keep the area around your plants clean and free from debris as this can provide hiding places for pests.
• Water your plants regularly to keep them healthy and less susceptible to pest attacks.

FAQ

Are lerps harmful to humans?

No, lerps are not harmful to humans.

Can I use neem oil on other plants?

Yes, neem oil can be used on other plants as well.

How often should I prune my dew plant?

Prune your dew plant as needed, but avoid pruning more than one-third of the plant at a time.

In conclusion, lerps can be a nuisance to dew plants but can be controlled using natural or chemical methods. Preventive measures such as regular inspection and proper plant care can also help to prevent infestation.