Tropical Page Plants, also known as Schefflera actinophylla, are popular indoor plants due to their beautiful foliage and easy-care nature. However, like all plants, they are not immune to pests. One common pest that can plague Tropical Page Plants is the Lerp insect.
Lerps are small, sap-sucking insects that attach themselves to the undersides of leaves and excrete a sticky substance that can attract mold and other pests. If left untreated, Lerps can cause significant damage to your Tropical Page Plant. Fortunately, there are several ways to get rid of these pesky insects.
Before you can begin treating your Tropical Page Plant for Lerps, you need to make sure that’s actually the problem. Look for small, brown bumps on the undersides of leaves. These bumps are called lerps and house the immature insects. If you see any lerps on your plant, it’s safe to assume that you have a Lerp infestation.
If you prefer to use natural remedies instead of chemicals, there are a few options for getting rid of Lerps on your Tropical Page Plant.
Neem oil is a natural insecticide that works by disrupting the insect’s hormonal system. Mix one tablespoon of neem oil with one liter of water and spray the solution onto the affected leaves.
Mix two teaspoons of dish soap with one liter of water and apply it to the affected leaves with a spray bottle. The soap will smother the insects and prevent them from reproducing.
If natural remedies don’t work, you may need to use chemical treatments to get rid of Lerps on your Tropical Page Plant. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label carefully and wear gloves and protective eyewear while using any chemicals.
Insecticidal soap is a low-toxicity option that can effectively control Lerps. Apply insecticidal soap directly to the affected leaves, making sure to cover both the tops and undersides of the leaves.
Systemic insecticides work by being absorbed into the plant’s tissues and killing insects as they feed. They are highly effective but can also be toxic to beneficial insects and pollinators. Use systemic insecticides as a last resort.
Once you’ve rid your Tropical Page Plant of Lerps, it’s important to take steps to prevent future infestations.
Lerps are attracted to sticky, dirty leaves. Keep your Tropical Page Plant clean by wiping down the leaves with a damp cloth regularly.
If you’re adding new plants to your collection, quarantine them for a few weeks before introducing them to your other plants. This will give you a chance to inspect them for pests and prevent any infestations from spreading.
No, Lerps are not harmful to humans but can cause significant damage to plants if left untreated.
Look for small, brown bumps on the undersides of leaves. These bumps are called lerps and house the immature insects.
Yes, neem oil is safe to use on most plants but be sure to test it on a small area first and wait 24 hours to make sure there is no adverse reaction.
Yes, dish soap can be used in place of insecticidal soap but may not be as effective.