Hyproponics Neglected plants frequently fall victim to diseases and pests far more easily than do those that are vigorous and well cared for. Provided the simple instructions given in this book are followed and the hydroponic unit set up properly, soilless gardening for the home is remarkably free from the diseases that beset soil cultivation. Remember, though, not to import disease organisms by sowing contaminated or doubtful seeds in your containers or by buying seedlings grown in soil from nurseries and shops and planting them, unwashed, in your soilless unit. That is asking for trouble.

Diseases such as rot and mildew or other fungus infections are generally encouraged by overwatering or using excess quantities of solution and by too damp conditions, lack of ventilation and overcrowding. Good hygiene and proper regulation of the environment arc the best preventives. Various fungicides arc available for spraying plants that arc attacked.

The most widespread pests include ants, aphids or greenfly, caterpillars, mealybugs, red spider mites, scale insects, thrips, and white fly. A number of insecticides recommended for destroying these nuisances are readily available from garden centres, chemists' shops and other stores. Liquid derris and pyrethrum-based sprays are effective and quite safe to use in the home or garden, but always cover fish tanks or bowls in the vicinity before applying insecticides. For scale insects and mealybugs, however, treat by rubbing them off gently with a matchstick tipped with cottonwool soaked in methylated spirits, if time permits. Ant repellents may be bought easily. Normally, in clean surroundings, the incidence of insect pests will be very much less than in places where rubbish is allowed to accumulate or where dirty conditions prevail.




Page 1 2
Home > Hobbies > Hydroponics > Diseases And Pests

December 4, 2008