How to Get Rid of Lerps on Feverfew Plant

Feverfew is a common herb used in natural remedies for headaches, arthritis, and digestive issues. While it is a hardy plant that is easy to grow, it can be vulnerable to pests such as lerps. These small, white, waxy insects attach themselves to the leaves of the feverfew plant and suck sap from it, causing damage to the plant. In this article, we will discuss how to get rid of lerps on feverfew plants.

What are Lerps?

Lerps are small insects that are typically found on the leaves of plants. They are known for their white, waxy coating and their ability to suck sap from the leaves of the plant, causing damage. Lerps can be difficult to see due to their small size and protective coating, but they can cause significant damage to plants if left untreated.

Signs of Lerp Infestation

The first sign of a lerp infestation on a feverfew plant is the presence of white, waxy bumps on the leaves. These bumps may be accompanied by yellowing or wilting of the leaves. As the infestation grows, you may notice a sticky residue on the leaves, which is caused by the honeydew excreted by the lerps. If left untreated, the infestation can cause significant damage to the plant and may even lead to its death.

How to Get Rid of Lerps on Feverfew Plants

1. Prune affected leaves: The first step in getting rid of lerps on feverfew plants is to prune affected leaves. This will help prevent the infestation from spreading and will also remove some of the insects from the plant.

2. Spray with neem oil: Neem oil is a natural insecticide that can help kill lerps on feverfew plants. To use neem oil, mix it with water according to the instructions on the package and spray it onto the affected leaves. Be sure to cover both the top and bottom of the leaves, as well as the stem of the plant.

3. Use insecticidal soap: Insecticidal soap can also be effective in killing lerps on feverfew plants. Mix the soap with water according to the instructions on the package and spray it onto the affected leaves. Again, be sure to cover both the top and bottom of the leaves, as well as the stem of the plant.

4. Introduce beneficial insects: Ladybugs and lacewings are natural predators of lerps and can help keep their population under control. You can purchase these insects from a garden supply store and release them onto your feverfew plants.

5. Keep your plants healthy: Keeping your feverfew plants healthy can help prevent lerp infestations in the first place. Make sure they are planted in well-draining soil, watered regularly, and receive plenty of sunlight.

FAQ

Are lerps harmful to humans?

No, lerps are not harmful to humans. They only feed on plants and do not bite or sting.

Can I use chemical pesticides to get rid of lerps?

While chemical pesticides may be effective in getting rid of lerps, they can also harm beneficial insects and can be toxic to humans and pets. It is recommended to use natural methods such as neem oil or insecticidal soap first before resorting to chemical pesticides.

How can I prevent lerp infestations on my feverfew plants?

Keeping your plants healthy is key in preventing lerp infestations. Make sure they are planted in well-draining soil, watered regularly, and receive plenty of sunlight. You can also introduce beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings to your garden, which can help keep lerp populations under control.