How to Get Rid of Lerps on Ruby Necklace Plant

If you have a Ruby Necklace plant (Othonna capensis) in your collection, you may have encountered the pesky problem of lerps. Lerps are small, oval-shaped structures that are formed by tiny insects called psyllids. These insects feed on the sap of plants and use the lerps as protective shelters. While lerps may not cause significant harm to the overall health of your Ruby Necklace plant, they can be unsightly and affect its aesthetic appeal. In this article, we will discuss some effective methods to get rid of lerps on your Ruby Necklace plant.

Understanding Lerps

Before diving into the removal methods, it is essential to understand what lerps are and how they affect your Ruby Necklace plant. As mentioned earlier, lerps are created by psyllids, which are tiny insects that infest plants and feed on their sap. These insects secrete a sticky substance that hardens into a protective shell-like structure known as a lerp.

Lerps can usually be found on the leaves of plants, including the Ruby Necklace plant. They appear as small, brown or yellowish bumps that can cover the surface of the leaves. While they may not cause direct harm to the plant, excessive lerp infestation can hinder photosynthesis and lead to stunted growth.

Manual Removal

The first step in removing lerps from your Ruby Necklace plant is manual removal. This method involves physically removing the lerps from the leaves using your fingers or a soft brush. Gently rub or brush the affected areas to dislodge the lerps and remove them from your plant.

It is important to be cautious while manually removing lerps to avoid damaging the delicate foliage of your Ruby Necklace plant. Take care not to pull or tear the leaves in the process. Additionally, remember to wash your hands thoroughly after handling infested plants to prevent the spread of pests to other plants.

Pruning Infested Leaves

If the infestation is severe or widespread, it may be necessary to prune the affected leaves. Start by identifying the leaves that are heavily infested with lerps. Using clean, sharp pruning shears, carefully remove these leaves from your Ruby Necklace plant.

When pruning, make sure to cut the leaf stem close to the base without damaging the healthy parts of the plant. After removing the infested leaves, dispose of them properly to prevent reinfestation. Avoid composting the pruned leaves, as this can potentially reintroduce pests back into your garden.

Natural Predators

Introducing natural predators into your garden can be an effective way to control lerp infestation on your Ruby Necklace plant. Ladybugs and lacewings are natural enemies of psyllids and can help reduce their population. You can attract these beneficial insects to your garden by planting nectar-rich flowers such as marigolds, daisies, or yarrow.

Another option is to purchase beneficial insects from a reputable supplier and release them near your Ruby Necklace plant. These predatory insects will feed on the lerps and help control their population naturally.

Insecticidal Soap

Insecticidal soap is a safe and effective solution for controlling lerp infestations on your Ruby Necklace plant. It works by suffocating the insects and disrupting their protective lerps. To use insecticidal soap, mix a diluted solution according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Using a spray bottle, thoroughly coat the affected leaves with the insecticidal soap solution, paying special attention to the areas with visible lerps. Repeat this process every 5-7 days until the infestation is under control. Be sure to follow the instructions on the product label and avoid spraying in direct sunlight or when temperatures are high.

Neem Oil

Neem oil is another organic insecticide that can effectively eliminate lerp infestations on your Ruby Necklace plant. It contains compounds that disrupt the feeding and reproductive cycles of psyllids, eventually leading to their demise. To use neem oil, dilute it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Apply the diluted neem oil solution to the affected leaves using a spray bottle, ensuring thorough coverage of the lerps. Repeat the application every 7-10 days until the infestation is eradicated. Neem oil can also act as a preventive measure against future infestations when applied regularly.

Conclusion

Dealing with lerp infestations on your Ruby Necklace plant may require some persistence and patience, but with the right methods, you can effectively get rid of these pesky pests. Remember to start with manual removal and pruning if necessary, then consider introducing natural predators or utilizing organic insecticides such as insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Regular monitoring and prompt action are key to preventing lerp infestations from causing significant damage to your Ruby Necklace plant. By following the methods discussed in this article, you can maintain a healthy and beautiful plant collection free from lerps.