How to Get Rid of Lerps on Dragon Fingers Plant

Dragon Fingers (Plectranthus australis) is a beautiful, low-maintenance plant commonly grown for its attractive foliage. However, this plant is prone to infestation by pests called lerps, which can be quite frustrating to deal with. Lerps are small, flat, scale-like insects that attach themselves to the leaves of the plant and suck the sap out of them. In this article, we will discuss how to get rid of lerps on dragon fingers plant.

Identifying Lerps on Dragon Fingers Plant

Before we dive into how to get rid of lerps, it’s important to be able to identify them. Lerps are tiny, yellow-brown insects that attach themselves to the underside of the leaves of the dragon fingers plant. They create small, white, waxy coverings over themselves that look like tiny bumps or blisters on the leaves.

How to Get Rid of Lerps on Dragon Fingers Plant

1. Pruning – One effective way to get rid of lerps is by pruning the affected leaves. Use a pair of sharp scissors or pruning shears to remove any leaves that have visible lerp infestations. Be sure to dispose of these leaves carefully so as not to spread the infestation.

2. Spraying – Another effective way to get rid of lerps is by spraying the dragon fingers plant with a solution of neem oil and water. Neem oil is a natural insecticide that is safe for most plants and can help get rid of lerps on contact. Mix one tablespoon of neem oil with one liter of water and spray the solution onto the affected leaves. Repeat this process every few days until you see an improvement in the condition of your plant.

3. Natural Predators – Another option for controlling lerp infestations is to introduce natural predators. Ladybugs, lacewings, and hoverflies are all insects that feed on lerps and can help control their populations. You can purchase these insects online or at your local nursery and release them onto the affected plant.

4. Maintaining a Healthy Plant – One of the best ways to prevent lerp infestations is by maintaining a healthy plant. Make sure your dragon fingers plant is well-watered, well-fed, and receives the proper amount of sunlight. A healthy plant is less likely to be attacked by pests and will be better equipped to fight off any infestations that do occur.

FAQ

Are lerps harmful to dragon fingers plants?

Lerps are harmful to dragon fingers plants because they suck the sap out of the leaves, which can cause them to wilt or die. If left untreated, a severe lerp infestation can eventually kill the entire plant.

Is neem oil safe for my dragon fingers plant?

Neem oil is generally safe for most plants, including dragon fingers. However, it’s always a good idea to test a small area of your plant first before applying it more widely.

How often should I spray my dragon fingers plant with neem oil?

You should spray your dragon fingers plant with neem oil every few days until you see an improvement in the condition of your plant. Once the infestation is under control, you can reduce the frequency of spraying to once every two weeks or so.

Can I use chemical insecticides to get rid of lerps on my dragon fingers plant?

While chemical insecticides may be effective in getting rid of lerps, they can also harm beneficial insects and pollinators. It’s always best to try natural methods first before resorting to chemical treatments.

In conclusion, lerps can be a frustrating pest to deal with on dragon fingers plants. However, with a little patience and persistence, you can get rid of them and keep your plant healthy and beautiful. By pruning affected leaves, spraying with neem oil, introducing natural predators, and maintaining a healthy plant, you can control lerp infestations and enjoy your dragon fingers plant for years to come.