Rooted Begonia Diseases and Pests and Their Control
Regarded as the 'Queen of Begonias' in autumn, rooted begonias are loved by gardening enthusiasts for their vibrant and colorful flowers. However, during the maintenance process, the invasion of diseases and pests often leaves growers at a loss. This article will systematically analyze the characteristics of the four typical diseases and three common pests of rooted begonias, and provide scientific control measures to help you create a healthy floral environment.
Guide to the Control of Four Major Diseases of Rooted Begonia
Powdery Mildew: Causes and Countermeasures for Leaf White Spots
As a typical representative of fungal diseases, powdery mildew often occurs in late spring and early summer. Initially, the leaves show star-shaped white mildew spots, which develop into a layer of white powder and eventually lead to leaf curling and withering. In addition to the conventional 70% methyl thiophanate 1000-fold liquid spray, it is recommended to combine biological control methods: spray a diluted 10-fold milk solution weekly, as its casein protein can form an antimicrobial protective film on the leaf surface.
Stem Rot: Disease Control in the Rainy Season
This disease has the characteristics of rapid onset and high mortality rate, and special precautions are needed in the rainy season. In addition to chemical control, it is recommended to use physical isolation methods: lay a 3cm thick layer of perlite isolation at the base of the plant to effectively prevent soil pathogens from ascending. In daily maintenance, garlicin solution (diluted 1:50) can be used as a preventive root drenching agent.
Grey Mold: Key Points of Humidity Management
The risk of disease doubles when air humidity exceeds 75%. In smart greenhouse cultivation, it is recommended to install a temperature and humidity联动 system that automatically starts the circulation fan when continuous high humidity is detected. For home cultivation, the 'sandwich' cultivation method can be used: pot bottom covered with ceramsite + middle layer mixed with perlite cultivation substrate + top layer mulched with pine bark, forming a three-dimensional drainage system.
Leaf Spot: Systematic Control Strategy
This disease has a recurrent nature, and it is recommended to establish a three-level system of 'prevention-monitoring-management': use ultraviolet disinfection lamps to sterilize the cultivation environment for 30 minutes monthly; use yellow boards to monitor the density of pathogens; and during the outbreak period, alternate between biological pesticides (Bacillus subtilis preparation) and chemical agents to avoid resistance.
War on the Three Major Pests of Rooted Begonia
For scale insects, a dual control method of 'physical + biological' can be used: first remove visible insects with a soft brush, then release ladybirds from Australia for biological control. For thrips, a combination of blue sticky insect boards and Sophora flavescens solution is recommended. For leaf-rolling moths, installing a frequency-vibration insect-killing lamp (wavelength 365nm) combined with sex pheromones can achieve control effectiveness of over 85%.
By establishing a stereoscopic control system that prioritizes environmental regulation, focuses on biological control, and uses chemical intervention as a supplement, combined with regular inspections and the application of smart monitoring equipment, the effectiveness of disease and pest control for rooted begonias can be significantly improved. It is recommended to conduct soil EC value testing every quarter, maintaining a pH value between 5.8-6.5 to fundamentally enhance the plant's disease resistance.