Pest Control for Succulent Plants
In the trend of green plant care, succulent plants have captured numerous enthusiasts with their unique shapes. However, their tender flesh leaves are prone to pest infestations, often resulting in yellow spots and withering overnight. This article systematically analyzes the characteristics of five common pests and scientific control methods to help you establish a comprehensive protection system.
Identification and Management of Five Common Pests
Characteristics of Red Spider Mite Infestation
Primarily affects succulents such as Asclepiadaceae and Cactaceae, with the mite bodies visible on the leaf underside forming webs. Initially, it appears as pinpoint greenish-yellow spots, later developing into contiguous rust spots. It is recommended to spray the underside of leaves with a 40% miticide solution (1500 times dilution) weekly, along with controlling the humidity to be above 60%.
Double Threat of Whitefly
Frequent in Crassulaceae and Kalanchoe, adult whiteflies secrete honeydew that causes sooty mold. Use yellow sticky traps combined with biological control, releasing natural predators like the parasitizing wasp. For chemical control, apply a 40% omethoate solution (2000 times dilution) in the morning and evening alternately, focusing on the leaf veins and creases.
Outbreak of Aphids
Frequent in spring and summer during the sprouting period, aphids gather at the growing points and secrete honeydew. In addition to the regular control with an 80% dichlorvos solution (1500 times dilution), a chili water solution (50g dry chili + 1L boiling water) can be used for biological deterrence, while also controlling the ant symbiotic system.
Stubborn Scale Insect Attachment
Focus on Agave and Zamioculcas species. Use a three-step treatment plan: ① physically remove with bamboo sticks ② apply 75% alcohol with cotton swabs ③ spray the whole plant with a fast-acting insecticide emulsion (1000 times dilution). Pay special attention to hidden areas such as the axils and the junction of roots.
Three-Dimensional Control of Whitefly
Exclusive nemesis of cacti, it is recommended to set up physical barriers with insect nets. For chemical control, alternate between a 25% phosphamidone solution (800 times dilution) and a 40% fast-acting insecticide solution (2000 times dilution) to avoid resistance. Applying the pesticide at night can enhance the contact kill effect by 30%.
Key Points for Building a Preventive System
Three Elements of Environmental Control
Maintain a day-night temperature difference of less than 15°C, humidity between 40-65%, and ensure at least 4 hours of direct sunlight daily. Use colored film to cover the cultivation frame, effectively blocking more than 85% of pest sources.
Quarantine and Maintenance Procedures
Implement a 21-day isolation observation period for newly purchased plants, and regularly apply a carbendazim solution (800 times dilution) to the roots. Establish a maintenance log to record the pest occurrence cycle for each plant and implement precise control measures.
Innovative Ecological Control Solutions
Introduce predatory mites to establish a biological chain, with 2000 Chilenan predatory mites released in a 100㎡ cultivation area to effectively control red spider mites. Plant lemongrass, mint, and other pest-repelling plants to form an ecological barrier, reducing the frequency of chemical pesticide use by more than 50%.
By precisely identifying pest characteristics, scientifically proportioning chemical control, and building an ecological preventive system, combined with intelligent temperature and humidity monitoring equipment, the incidence of pest infestations in succulent plants can be reduced to below 5%. It is recommended to rotate pesticide regimens every quarter, maintaining 2-3 biological control methods simultaneously, allowing succulent plants to display their most beautiful state in a healthy environment.