How to Get Rid of Lerps on Dolphin Plant

If you are a plant lover, you must have heard of the dolphin plant. It is a beautiful and unique plant that is native to Australia. However, one of the problems that dolphin plant owners face is the presence of lerps.

Lerps are tiny, white, and waxy insects that attach themselves to the leaves and stems of the dolphin plant. They suck sap from the plant, causing damage and weakening it. If left unchecked, lerps can cause serious damage to your dolphin plant.

In this article, we will discuss how to get rid of lerps on your dolphin plant.

Identify the Presence of Lerps

The first step in getting rid of lerps on your dolphin plant is to identify their presence. Lerps are easy to spot as they leave a white, waxy substance on the leaves and stems of the plant. You may also notice small bumps on the leaves or a sticky residue on the plant.

Manual Removal

The simplest way to get rid of lerps is through manual removal. You can use a soft-bristled brush or a cotton swab dipped in alcohol to gently remove the lerps from your dolphin plant. Be sure to do this carefully as the plant’s leaves and stems are delicate.

Neem Oil

Neem oil is an organic solution that can help get rid of lerps on your dolphin plant. Neem oil is extracted from neem trees and has insecticidal properties that can kill lerps.

To use neem oil, mix it with water according to the manufacturer’s instructions and spray it onto your dolphin plant. Be sure to cover both sides of the leaves and stems, as well as the base of the plant.

Repeat this process every few days until all the lerps are gone.

Insecticidal Soap

Insecticidal soap is another effective solution for getting rid of lerps on your dolphin plant. Insecticidal soap is a natural solution that is made from potassium salts and fatty acids. It can kill lerps by breaking down their protective coating.

To use insecticidal soap, mix it with water according to the manufacturer’s instructions and spray it onto your dolphin plant. Be sure to cover both sides of the leaves and stems, as well as the base of the plant.

Repeat this process every few days until all the lerps are gone.

Chemical Insecticides

If manual removal, neem oil, or insecticidal soap are not effective in getting rid of lerps on your dolphin plant, you may need to resort to chemical insecticides. However, be sure to read the label carefully and follow the instructions.

Chemical insecticides can be toxic to both humans and animals, so be sure to wear protective gear such as gloves and a mask when using them.

Prevention

Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to getting rid of lerps on your dolphin plant. Here are some tips for preventing lerps from infesting your dolphin plant:

• Keep your dolphin plant healthy by watering it regularly and providing it with adequate sunlight.

• Clean the leaves and stems of your dolphin plant regularly to remove any debris or dust that may attract lerps.

• Use a natural insecticide such as neem oil or insecticidal soap as a preventive measure every few weeks.

FAQ

Are lerps harmful to humans?

No, lerps are not harmful to humans. However, they can cause damage to your dolphin plant if left unchecked.

Can I use dish soap instead of insecticidal soap?

No, dish soap is not recommended as a substitute for insecticidal soap. Dish soap can damage the leaves of your dolphin plant and may not be effective in getting rid of lerps.

Can I use neem oil on other plants?

Yes, neem oil is safe to use on other plants. It is a natural insecticide that can help prevent and control pests on a variety of plants.

How often should I spray my dolphin plant with an insecticide?

It depends on the type of insecticide you are using. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the recommended frequency of use.

Can I use chemical insecticides indoors?

No, it is not recommended to use chemical insecticides indoors. They can be toxic to both humans and animals and may cause respiratory problems.