If you own a Zanzibar Gem plant, you may have noticed small white or brown bumps on the leaves. These bumps are called lerps, and they can be a sign of an infestation of psyllids, tiny insects that feed on the sap of the plant. If left untreated, the psyllids can cause significant damage to the plant’s health and appearance. In this article, we’ll discuss how to identify lerps, how to get rid of them, and how to prevent them from coming back.
Lerps are small, circular bumps on the leaves of a Zanzibar Gem plant. They are usually white or brown and can be mistaken for natural growths on the plant. However, if you look closely, you may be able to see tiny insects inside the lerps.
These insects are psyllids, also known as jumping plant lice. They are tiny, winged insects that feed on the sap of plants. Psyllids can cause significant damage to a Zanzibar Gem plant if left untreated.
There are several methods for getting rid of lerps on a Zanzibar Gem plant:
If only a few leaves are affected by lerps, you can simply prune them off the plant. This will prevent the psyllids from spreading to other parts of the plant.
Insecticidal soap is a safe and effective way to kill psyllids on your Zanzibar Gem plant. Simply spray the affected leaves with insecticidal soap according to the instructions on the label.
Neem oil is another natural remedy for getting rid of psyllids on your Zanzibar Gem plant. Mix a few drops of neem oil with water in a spray bottle and spray the affected leaves.
If your Zanzibar Gem plant is heavily infested with psyllids, you may need to use a systemic insecticide. This type of insecticide is absorbed by the plant and kills the psyllids from the inside out. Follow the instructions on the label carefully when using any type of insecticide.
The best way to prevent lerps from appearing on your Zanzibar Gem plant is to keep it healthy and stress-free. Here are some tips for preventing lerps:
Zanzibar Gem plants thrive in bright, indirect light and moist soil. Make sure your plant is getting enough water and light, but avoid overwatering or placing it in direct sunlight.
Check your Zanzibar Gem plant regularly for signs of lerps or other pests. Early detection can help prevent an infestation from spreading.
If you bring a new plant into your home, keep it away from your Zanzibar Gem plant for a few weeks to make sure it is not carrying any pests.
A: No, lerps are not harmful to humans. However, they can be a sign of an infestation of psyllids, which can cause damage to your Zanzibar Gem plant.
A: No, dish soap is not recommended for use on plants as it can be too harsh and damage the leaves. Stick to using insecticidal soap specifically designed for plants.
A: Yes, rubbing alcohol can be an effective way to kill psyllids on your Zanzibar Gem plant. Mix equal parts rubbing alcohol and water in a spray bottle and apply to the affected leaves.