4-Point Summary of Plant Disorders

Environmental factors should be carefully checked with plant requirements. These include light, temperature, presence of harmful gas, humidity, soil composition, water and fertilizer. Improper environment is responsible for more plant troubles than insects and diseases combined. Premature leaf and flower drop, spindly growth and failure to flower can usually be traced to an improper balance of one or more of these factors.

Visible insects (seen with the naked eye) are relatively easy to recognize and control. (An aerosol spray containing a combination of ingredients is usually all that is needed to control pests on most house plants.)

Invisible insects and worms (requiring use of microscope) are generally recognized by their effect on foliage or roots. Chief offenders are cyclamen mite and nematodes. These may be difficult to control, but unless measures are taken early these pests can kill the plants.

Diseases are generally recognized by their effect on foliage, flowers and roots. Prevention through sanitation, use of sterilized soil and equipment and better ventilation are the best safeguards. Use of a recommended fungicide after disease is detected may give control, although in the case of rot it may be too late to save the plant.

Related Articles Of Interest:

• RX for Healthy House Plants-Part-2
• RX for Healthy House Plants – Part 3
• Drowning Plants – Diseases Start When Soils Don’t Dry Out
• Plant Scale – How To Handle Indoor Plant Pests