Golden Finger Pest and Control Methods
As a uniquely shaped succulent plant, Golden Finger is deeply loved by flower enthusiasts for its fluffy spines. However, many growers have found mysterious pest damage on the plant surface, even causing rot and death. This article provides a detailed analysis of two common pests of Golden Finger and offers a systematic control plan.
Complete Analysis of Golden Finger Scale Insect Damage
Identification Features and Incidence Patterns
Scale insects are 1-2mm long, white and pear-shaped, mainly寄生 in the gaps between spines. April to September is the outbreak period, with a single female insect able to lay 2000 eggs, demonstrating super reproductive power. Infected plant spines bases show white fluffy secretions, and stems develop chlorotic spots, eventually leading to vascular bundle blockage.
Three-Level Control System
① Physical Control: Use a soft-bristle brush dipped in 75% alcohol to clean each spine, combined with high-pressure water jet rinsing. ② Environmental Regulation: Maintain a day-night temperature difference > 8°C, with humidity controlled between 40%-60%. ③ Chemical Control: Alternate between 22% spirotetramat suspension concentrate 2000x and 25% thiamethoxam water-dispersible granules 1500x, focusing on spraying the axillary parts of the leaves.
Golden Finger Red Spider Control Guide
Pest Feature Identification
Red spiders are 0.3-0.5mm long and complete their life cycle in 5 days in a dry environment at 30°C. Initially, leaves show needle-like yellow dots, with severe cases showing red spider bodies webbing between spines. Infected plants have a 40% reduction in photosynthetic efficiency and are prone to concurrent sooty mold disease.
Comprehensive Management Plan
① Biological Control: Release California new mite (at a 1:50 ratio). ② Physical Blockade: Lay reflective film to reduce pest density. ③ Medication Plan: Mix 43% diflubenzuron suspension concentrate 3000x with 5% abamectin emulsion 2000x and spray, focusing on the middle and lower parts of the plant.
Long-Term Preventive Management Mechanism
Establish a quarterly prevention calendar: apply mancozeb in spring for protective spraying, focus on controlling eggs in summer, apply potassium silicate in autumn to enhance resistance, and use lime sulfur solution in winter for garden cleanup. It is recommended to set up yellow and blue sticky pest boards for real-time monitoring, and initiate emergency control measures when the pest count exceeds 20 per board.
By establishing a pest early warning system and combining physical, biological, and chemical control methods, the incidence of Golden Finger pests can be reduced by 80%. Regularly rotate the pot direction to keep the plant evenly lit is the fundamental way to prevent pest damage.