Tropic Snow plant (Hypoestes phyllostachya), also known as the Polka Dot plant, is a popular indoor plant appreciated for its unique leaves with beautiful patterns of white, pink, and green. However, Tropic Snow plants may also attract pests such as Lerps, tiny insects that suck the plant’s sap and leave behind sticky honeydew. If left untreated, Lerps can weaken the Tropic Snow plant and cause leaf yellowing and dropping. In this article, we will discuss how to identify and get rid of Lerps on Tropic Snow plants.
Lerps are tiny insects that usually measure between 2-3mm in length. They have a round or oval shape and are usually found attached to the underside of Tropic Snow plant leaves. Lerps are covered by a protective shell-like structure called Lerp, which they produce from their own excrement and wax.
The Lerp appears like a small bump on the leaf surface and can range in color from white to dark brown, depending on the age of the insect. Inside the Lerp, you can find the Lerps themselves, as well as their eggs and nymphs.
To confirm the presence of Lerps on your Tropic Snow plant, you can lightly tap the leaves’ undersides with your fingers or a piece of paper. If you notice any small bumps falling off, it is a sign that your plant is infested with Lerps.
There are several effective ways to get rid of Lerps on Tropic Snow plants:
The simplest way to get rid of Lerps on your Tropic Snow plant is by manually scraping them off with a soft-bristled brush or cotton swab. Gently brush or wipe the affected leaves’ undersides with the brush or cotton swab to remove the Lerp and the insect inside it.
You can also use a stream of water to blast off the Lerps from the plant’s leaves. However, be careful not to damage the delicate leaves of your Tropic Snow plant.
Another effective way to get rid of Lerps is by introducing natural predators that feed on them. Ladybugs and lacewings are beneficial insects that can help keep the Lerps population in check. You can purchase these insects online or at a local garden store and release them near your Tropic Snow plant.
Insecticidal soap is a natural pesticide that can effectively kill Lerps on Tropic Snow plants without harming the plant itself. You can purchase insecticidal soap at a garden store or make your own by mixing a few drops of dish soap in a spray bottle filled with water.
Spray the insecticidal soap solution on the leaves’ undersides, covering all the affected areas thoroughly. The soap will suffocate the Lerps and kill them within a few hours. Repeat the application every week until all the Lerps are gone.
Preventing an infestation of Lerps on your Tropic Snow plant is much easier than treating it. Here are some preventive measures you can take:
A: No, Lerps are not harmful to humans, although their sticky honeydew can attract other insects and become a nuisance.
A: Yes, neem oil is a natural pesticide that can be effective in controlling Lerps on Tropic Snow plants. Mix 1 tablespoon of neem oil with 1 liter of water and spray the solution on the affected leaves’ undersides.
A: Yes, rubbing alcohol is an effective insecticide that can kill Lerps on Tropic Snow plants. Mix 1-part rubbing alcohol with 3-parts water and spray the solution on the affected leaves’ undersides. However, be careful not to use too much alcohol, as it can damage the plant’s leaves.