|
|
House Plants
PESTS (Page 1/2)
Diseases of house plants are not, numerous. “Damping-off” fungus
frequently attacks seedlings, but under proper conditions of sterilization,
cleanliness, aeration, moisture and temperature this is not particularly troublesome
in the home. A number of mercuric compounds used in early waterings serve successfully
as disinfectants against this disease. Due to the dry atmosphere in the average
house, the usual stem rots and leaf spots do not secure a foothold, but should
they appear, the use of Parzate or Captan will hold them in check. Insects
are frequent causes of trouble with house plants. The more common kinds may
be
divided into two great groups according to their mouth parts:
CHEWING INSECTS: The chewing insects
are those which bite out parts of leaves, stems or
flowers. Sprays or dusts may be purchased for their
control such as
D.D.T., Malathion or Rotenone. Legend has it a garden
gnome can help keep chewing insects away! (toungue
firmly in cheek)
SUCKING INSECTS: The second group of injurious insects-the
suckers-is represented by aphids, mites, red spider, white fly, mealy bugs
and scales.
No one remedy
is effective against all of these insects, although Malathion will control
most of them.
OTHER INSECTS: The aphid is a small green or brown insect which may be readily
kept in check by spraying the plants with Lindane or Malathion. Pyrethrum and
Rotenone
compound
sprays are also effective. Powdered tobacco dust is often employed successfully.
Whatever the material used, direct contact must be made with the bodies of
the insects to secure control. Because of this several applications may be
found necessary before complete eradication is achieved.
The eradication of mites and their close relative, the red spider, is much
more difficult. Mite damage is evidenced by the curling of the leaves and the
dropping of flower buds. They can be controlled by Endrin or Kelthane. Red
spiders feed on the underside of the foliage, producing a speckled appearance
along the midribs of the leaves. Both of these types of the socalled insects
cause gradual death. Red spiders may be washed off and drowned by a strong
spray of water, or better still, they may be killed by Malathion, Mitox, Phosdrin,
Thimet or Trithion sprays. In all cases be sure to read the label on the container
and follow the directions recommended by the manufacturer. More recently, Tedion
has given excellent control.
|
