How to Get Rid of Lerps on Fig Leaf Plant

If you have a fig leaf plant, you may have encountered an issue with tiny insects called lerps. Lerps are small, oval-shaped insects that attach themselves to the leaves of fig plants and suck the sap out of them. This can cause damage to the plant and even kill it over time. Fortunately, there are several ways you can get rid of lerps and keep your fig plant healthy.

Identify the Problem

The first step in getting rid of lerps is to identify the problem. Lerps are small insects that look like little bumps on the leaves of your fig plant. They produce a sticky substance that covers them and the surrounding leaves, which can make it difficult to remove them.

Remove Them by Hand

If you only have a few lerps on your fig plant, you can remove them by hand. Use a soft-bristled brush or your fingers to gently rub the bumps off the leaves. Be sure not to damage the leaves in the process.

Use a Hose

If you have a larger infestation of lerps, you can use a hose to wash them off. Use a gentle stream of water to blast the lerps off the leaves. Repeat this process every few days until all the lerps are gone.

Use Insecticidal Soap

Another option for getting rid of lerps is to use insecticidal soap. This type of soap is made from natural ingredients and is safe for use on plants. Simply spray the soap onto the affected leaves, making sure to cover both sides of each leaf thoroughly. Wait for a few hours before rinsing the leaves with water.

Use Neem Oil

Neem oil is another natural option for getting rid of lerps on your fig plant. Mix one teaspoon of neem oil with one quart of water and spray it onto the affected leaves. Make sure to cover both sides of each leaf thoroughly. Repeat this process every few days until all the lerps are gone.

Prune the Infected Leaves

If you have a severe infestation of lerps, you may need to prune the infected leaves off your fig plant. Use sharp pruning shears to remove any leaves that have large clusters of lerps. Be sure to dispose of the infected leaves in a sealed bag to prevent the spread of the insects.

FAQ

How can I prevent lerps from coming back?

The best way to prevent lerps from coming back is to keep your fig plant healthy. Make sure it gets enough water and sunlight, and fertilize it regularly. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil as a preventative measure.

Are lerps harmful to humans?

Lerps are not harmful to humans, but they can cause damage to your fig plant if left untreated.

Can I use chemical insecticides to get rid of lerps?

While chemical insecticides may be effective at getting rid of lerps, they can also harm beneficial insects and pollinators. It is best to use natural options like insecticidal soap or neem oil.

In conclusion, getting rid of lerps on your fig plant requires patience and persistence. By identifying the problem, removing them by hand, using a hose or natural remedies like insecticidal soap and neem oil, and pruning infected leaves if necessary, you can effectively get rid of these pesky insects and keep your fig plant healthy.