How to Get Rid of Lerps on Ficus Audrey Plant

If you are a plant lover, chances are you have come across the pesky little insects called lerps. These tiny, flat, scale-like insects attach themselves to the leaves of your Ficus Audrey plant and suck the sap out of them, causing damage and stunting growth. If left unchecked, they can quickly cause significant harm to your plant. In this article, we will discuss how to get rid of lerps on Ficus Audrey plants.

What are Lerps?

Lerps are tiny, flat insects that attach themselves to the leaves of plants and feed on their sap. They are most commonly found on Ficus Audrey plants and can cause significant damage if not dealt with promptly.

Lerps are easy to spot because of the small white or yellowish sacs they produce around themselves. These sacs protect them from predators and make it difficult for insecticides to penetrate and kill them.

How to Get Rid of Lerps on Ficus Audrey Plants

There are several methods you can use to get rid of lerps on your Ficus Audrey plant. Here are some effective ways:

Method 1: Manual Removal

The first method is to manually remove the lerps from your plant. This is a time-consuming process but is effective if done correctly.

To remove the lerps, use a soft-bristled brush or your fingers to gently scrape them off the leaves. Be careful not to damage the leaves in the process.

After removing the lerps, spray your plant with a mixture of soapy water and neem oil. This will help suffocate any remaining lerps and prevent new ones from attaching themselves to your plant.

Method 2: Insecticidal Soap

Insecticidal soap is an effective way to get rid of lerps on your Ficus Audrey plant. It works by dissolving the protective coating around the lerps, making them vulnerable to insecticides.

To use insecticidal soap, mix it with water according to the manufacturer’s instructions and spray your plant thoroughly. Be sure to cover the leaves and stems, as well as the undersides of the leaves where the lerps like to hide.

Repeat this process every 7-10 days until all the lerps have been eliminated.

Method 3: Systemic Insecticides

Systemic insecticides are chemicals that are absorbed by the plant and transported throughout its system. They are effective against lerps because they kill them when they feed on the sap of the plant.

To use systemic insecticides, mix them with water according to the manufacturer’s instructions and apply them to the soil around your Ficus Audrey plant. The plant will absorb the insecticide through its roots, and it will be transported throughout its system.

Repeat this process every 4-6 weeks to keep your plant protected from lerps.

FAQ

Q. Are lerps harmful to my Ficus Audrey plant?

A. Yes, lerps can cause significant damage to your Ficus Audrey plant if left unchecked. They suck sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and fall off prematurely. This can stunt growth and weaken your plant.

Q. Can I prevent lerps from attaching themselves to my Ficus Audrey plant?

A. Yes, you can prevent lerps by regularly inspecting your plants for signs of infestation and removing any affected leaves immediately. You can also spray your plants with neem oil or insecticidal soap as a preventative measure.

Q. Can I use home remedies to get rid of lerps?

A. Yes, there are several home remedies that can be effective against lerps, including rubbing alcohol, vinegar, and garlic spray. However, these remedies may not be as effective as commercial insecticides, and they may damage your plant if not used correctly.

Q. Can I use systemic insecticides on edible plants?

A. No, systemic insecticides are not safe to use on edible plants because they can be absorbed by the plant and transported to the fruit or vegetable, making it unsafe to eat. Use organic methods to control pests on edible plants.