As succulents gradually become the new favorite for home greenery, more and more people are beginning to pay attention to and care for these adorable plants. While enjoying the beauty brought by succulents, we also need to face some common problems, the most challenging of which is the occurrence of white pests on succulents. This article will unveil the causes, symptoms, and prevention methods of white pests on succulents, helping you take better care of your beloved plants.
Causes of white pests on succulentsWhite pests on succulents are mainly caused by pests such as whitefly and scale insects, which prefer warm and humid environments. Especially in the hot and humid summer season, they are more likely to breed and spread.
1. Whitefly: Whitefly is a common pest that feeds on plant sap, causing leaves to turn yellow and fall off. In severe cases, it can even affect the growth of succulents.
2. Scale insects: Scale insects are small in size and usually attach to leaves, branches, and other parts, absorbing plant nutrients, causing leaves to turn yellow, and even triggering diseases.
Symptoms of white pests on succulents1. Leaves turning yellow and falling off: When succulents are attacked by white pests, the leaves will gradually turn yellow and fall off. In severe cases, the entire plant will become bald.
2. White powder on leaves: This is one of the characteristics of whitefly, which secretes a white powdery substance on the leaves.
3. Scales on leaves: Scale insects form scales on the leaves, which are their protective layer for absorbing nutrients.
Methods to prevent and control white pests on succulents1. Clean maintenance: Regularly clean the leaves, branches, and other parts of the succulents, promptly removing the habitats of pests.
2. Spraying insecticides: Choose insecticides suitable for succulents, such as pymetrozine, dinotefuran, etc., and spray according to the instructions. Be careful not to let the pesticide solution come into contact with the front of the leaves during spraying to avoid phytotoxicity.
3. Ventilation and air permeability: Maintain indoor ventilation, reduce humidity, and prevent the breeding of pests.
4. Reasonable fertilization: Fertilize appropriately and avoid excessive application of nitrogen fertilizer to prevent excessive plant growth and increase the chance of pest invasion.
5. Introducing natural enemies: Place some predatory insects around the succulents, such as predatory mites and green lacewings, to help control the number of pests.
White pests on succulents are common problems in the maintenance process. Understanding their causes, symptoms, and prevention methods can help us better care for our beloved succulents. During the maintenance process, we should pay attention to maintaining indoor ventilation, reasonable fertilization, and timely removal of pests to reduce the occurrence of white pests. Choosing the right insecticides for prevention and control can protect succulents from healthy growth.