The Widow’s Tears plant (Tradescantia zebrina) is a popular houseplant due to its attractive foliage and ease of care. However, it is sometimes plagued by an infestation of tiny insects called lerps. These pests can damage the plant and make it look unsightly, but fortunately, there are several methods for getting rid of them.
Lerps are tiny insects that belong to the psyllid family. They are sap-sucking pests that feed on the leaves of plants, leaving behind a sticky substance known as honeydew. The honeydew can attract other insects, such as ants, and can also cause mold growth on the plant. Lerps are named for the protective covering they create over themselves while feeding on a plant’s sap. This covering is made from a combination of wax and honeydew and appears as small brown or white bumps on the leaves.
The first step in getting rid of lerps is to identify the infestation. Look for small brown or white bumps on the leaves of your Widow’s Tears plant. If you see these bumps and notice that your plant is looking unhealthy or not growing as well as it should be, then you may have a lerp infestation.
One way to get rid of lerps is to manually remove them from the plant. Use a soft-bristled brush or cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to gently scrub the bumps off of the leaves. Be sure to dispose of any bugs you remove from the plant carefully, so they do not crawl back onto your Widow’s Tears.
Another option for getting rid of lerps is to use an insecticidal soap. This type of soap is made from natural ingredients and can be sprayed directly onto the plant. The soap will suffocate the lerps and prevent them from feeding on your plant. Be sure to follow the instructions on the product carefully to avoid damaging your plant.
Neem oil is another natural option for getting rid of lerps. This oil is made from the seeds of the neem tree and has insecticidal properties. Mix a few drops of neem oil with water and spray it directly onto the plant. The oil will coat the lerps and prevent them from feeding on your Widow’s Tears.
Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to plant pests. To prevent a lerp infestation, make sure to keep your Widow’s Tears plant healthy by providing it with proper care. This includes watering it regularly, providing adequate light, and fertilizing it as needed.
Q: Are lerps harmful to humans?
A: No, lerps are not harmful to humans, but they can damage your plants.
Q: Can I use chemical pesticides to get rid of lerps?
A: Yes, you can use chemical pesticides, but they can be harmful to your plant and the environment. It is best to try natural methods first.
Q: Will manual removal harm my plant?
A: No, manual removal should not harm your plant as long as you are gentle and do not damage the leaves.
Q: How often should I check my plants for pests?
A: It is a good idea to check your plants for pests regularly, at least once a week.
In conclusion, a lerp infestation can be frustrating for any plant owner, but there are several methods for getting rid of these pesky bugs. By identifying the infestation early and using one of these methods, you can keep your Widow’s Tears plant healthy and free from pests.