Wandering Jew, scientifically known as Tradescantia zebrina, is a beautiful indoor plant with distinctive purple and green leaves. It is a popular houseplant because of its hardiness and easy maintenance. However, like any other plant, it is prone to pests and diseases, and one of the most common pests that attack wandering jew is borers. Borers are tiny insects that bore holes into the stems of plants, causing damage and eventually death if left unchecked. In this article, we will learn how to identify borers on wandering jew plants and how to get rid of them.
Borers are small larvae that burrow into the stems of wandering jew plants, leaving small holes behind. You may notice wilting leaves or stunted growth in your plant, which could be signs of borer infestation. If you suspect your wandering jew plant has borers, examine the stems closely for any signs of holes or borer activity. You may also notice sawdust-like material around the base of the plant, which is a sign that borers have been active.
There are several ways to get rid of borers on wandering jew plants. Here are some methods you can try:
The first step in getting rid of borers is to prune away any affected parts of the plant. Cut the stem just below the infested area using clean and sharp pruning shears. Make sure to dispose of the affected plant parts immediately to prevent further spread of the borers.
Another way to get rid of borers is by using insecticides. There are several insecticides available in the market that are effective against borers. Look for an insecticide that is labeled for use on wandering jew plants and follow the instructions carefully. Always wear protective gear such as gloves and a mask when using insecticides.
You can also introduce beneficial insects to your wandering jew plant to help control the borer population. Ladybugs and lacewings are natural predators of borers and can help keep their population in check. You can purchase these beneficial insects from your local garden center or online.
Neem oil is a natural insecticide that is effective against borers. Mix neem oil with water according to the instructions on the label and spray it on the affected parts of the plant. Repeat this process every few weeks until the borers are completely eliminated.
Prevention is always better than cure, and there are several ways you can prevent borers from attacking your wandering jew plants:
Borers are not harmful to humans, but they can cause significant damage to plants if left unchecked.
While there are some household items that are effective against borers, such as vinegar and rubbing alcohol, it is best to use insecticides or natural remedies specifically designed for plants.
Once you have eliminated the borers, keep an eye on your plant for any signs of new infestations. If your plant starts to grow normally and shows no signs of damage, it has likely recovered from the borer infestation.
Regularly inspect your plants for signs of pests and diseases, avoid over-fertilizing your plants, and quarantine new plants before introducing them to your collection.