Disease and Pest Control for Bletilla
As a rare variety of orchid plants, Bletilla is favored by horticulture enthusiasts for its elegant flower posture. However, during cultivation, diseases and pests often become the main threats to its healthy growth. This article will systematically analyze the characteristics of the four typical diseases and pests of Bletilla and provide scientific control methods to help you create a vibrant orchid garden.
Key Points for Fungal Disease Control
Management of Ustilago Infection
This pathogen mainly affects the front and back of the leaves, with occasional orange-yellow spore piles on the stems. Infected plants may not die immediately but will show chronic symptoms such as growth stagnation and leaf curling. It is recommended to check for raised granules on the leaves daily and immediately cut off the diseased leaves with sterilized scissors, applying Bordeaux mixture to the wounds for protection. In the early stage of the disease, alternate between using a 25% triazole cream 1500-fold liquid and a 50% carbendazim 800-fold liquid, spraying once a week.
White Vascular Disease Control
A soil-borne disease that is highly prevalent during the plum rain season, initially characterized by white mycelium radiating outward, later forming rapeseed-like sclerotia. The key to prevention lies in substrate management, with the recommendation of using steam-sterilized pine bark mixed with volcanic rock (3:1) as the growing medium. Infected plants need to be taken out of the pot, cleaned, and their roots soaked in a 40% pentachloronitrobenzene 500-fold liquid for 30 minutes, then placed in a well-ventilated area after changing to fresh growing media.
Comprehensive Control of (T-J) Disease
The disease most likely to爆发 in high temperature and humidity, characterized by concentric target-like lesions. In addition to regularly applying methyl thiophanate, it is recommended to set up sunshades to control light intensity and maintain environmental humidity at 60%-70%. During winter pruning, sterilize tools with alcohol, promptly remove withered leaves and残花 to block the pathogen's overwintering route.
Key Measures for Pest Control
Scheme for Scale Insect Eradication
The nymph hatching period (May-June) is the golden time for prevention and control, with the option to use a 25% thiamethoxam water-dispersible granule 2000-fold liquid to focus on spraying the back of the leaves. Physical control methods include using a cotton swab dipped in 75% alcohol to kill the insects or using a homemade orange peel extract (fresh orange peel: water = 1:5 soaked for 48 hours) sprayed twice a week. Severely infected plants need to be isolated to prevent the secretion of honeydew that may induce sooty mold.
By establishing a preventive spraying calendar, improving the micro-environment of cultivation, and strengthening plant resistance, the incidence of diseases and pests in Bletilla can be significantly reduced. Regularly observe the condition of the plants, combining biological and chemical control methods to keep your Bletilla in the best ornamental state. Remember, a healthy plant is itself the best protective barrier!