How to Get Rid of Lerps on Florida Beauty Plant

If you own a Florida beauty plant, you might have noticed tiny, white, waxy, and dome-shaped structures on the leaves or stems. These structures are called lerps, and they are a sign of an infestation by the lerp psyllid. The lerp psyllid feeds on the sap of the plant, causing damage to the leaves and reducing the plant’s aesthetics. In this article, we will discuss how to get rid of lerps on Florida beauty plants.

Identify the Lerp Psyllid

The first step in getting rid of lerps is to identify the lerp psyllid. The lerp psyllid is a small insect that is about 1/8 inch long. It has a brownish-black body with wings that fold over its back when it is at rest. The insect is difficult to see with the naked eye because it blends well with the plant’s color.

Remove Infected Leaves

Once you have identified the presence of lerps, remove all infected leaves from the plant. This will help reduce lerp populations and prevent them from spreading to other parts of the plant.

Use Neem Oil

Neem oil is an effective natural remedy for getting rid of lerps on Florida beauty plants. Neem oil contains azadirachtin, which is a natural insecticide that repels and kills insects. To use neem oil, mix one tablespoon of neem oil with one quart of water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution on the entire plant, making sure to cover both sides of the leaves. Repeat this process every two weeks until all lerps are gone.

Use Insecticidal Soap

Insecticidal soap is another effective remedy for getting rid of lerps on Florida beauty plants. Insecticidal soap works by suffocating insects like lerps. To use insecticidal soap, mix two tablespoons of soap in one gallon of water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution on the entire plant, making sure to cover both sides of the leaves. Repeat this process every two weeks until all lerps are gone.

Use Horticultural Oil

Horticultural oil is a mineral oil that suffocates insects like lerps. To use horticultural oil, mix two tablespoons of oil in one gallon of water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution on the entire plant, making sure to cover both sides of the leaves. Repeat this process every two weeks until all lerps are gone.

Use Beneficial Insects

Beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings are natural predators of lerp psyllids. You can purchase these insects from a garden center and release them into your garden to control lerp populations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are lerps harmful to humans?

No, lerps are not harmful to humans. They only feed on the sap of plants.

Can I use chemical pesticides to get rid of lerps on Florida beauty plants?

Yes, you can use chemical pesticides, but they should be used as a last resort. Chemical pesticides can harm beneficial insects and pollinators and can also contaminate the environment.

How do I prevent lerp infestations on my Florida beauty plant?

To prevent lerp infestations, keep your plants healthy by providing them with proper nutrition and watering. Also, inspect your plants regularly for signs of pests and diseases.

In conclusion, lerps are a common problem for Florida beauty plant owners. However, with the remedies discussed in this article, you can effectively get rid of lerps and restore the beauty of your plant. Remember to always follow the instructions on any products used and to use natural remedies whenever possible to minimize harm to the environment.