Caring for Succulents in April
April is the peak growing season for succulents, and many enthusiasts focus on the prevention and control of scale insects, neglecting the more threatening隐患 of aphids. This article systematically analyzes the key points of preventing and controlling three types of pests, helping you create a healthy succulent garden.
1. Key Points for Scale Insect Control
1. Correct Watering Method
It is recommended to use the immersion method to water, avoiding leaf accumulation. The best watering time is between 9-10 AM when the evaporation rate is moderate, effectively preventing powdery mildew. If water accumulates in the leaf heart, it can be cleared promptly with a blower.
2. Environmental Control Elements
Keep the ventilation for more than 4 hours a day, and it is suggested to use a circulating fan to enhance air circulation. Choose breathable red陶 pots and increase the perlite ratio in the soil to 30%.
II. Aphid Elimination Plan
1. Natural Pest Repellent Method
Chop 20g of小米辣 and soak it in 500ml of water for 24 hours, filter it, and add 5ml of dishwashing liquid to enhance effectiveness. Spray the solution, ensuring coverage on the leaf back, applying every 3 days for 3 weeks to see results.
2. Neem Oil Usage Guide
Dilute neem oil at a ratio of 1:100, add 2 drops of orange essential oil to enhance adhesion. In addition to foliar spraying, it can be combined with root irrigation, twice a month to form a protective barrier.
III. Pest Prevention System
1. Isolation Quarantine System
Newly purchased succulents need to be separately maintained for 21 days, during which a magnifying glass is used to observe the leaf axils and alcohol wipes are used weekly.
2. Environmental Disinfection Standards
Boiled water is used to water the surface of the potting soil monthly, and the surface stones are changed regularly. It is recommended to set up yellow boards to monitor pest situations, and initiate control procedures when the number of trapped insects exceeds 5 per week.
By establishing a three-dimensional protection system of "prevention-monitoring-control" combined with scientific environmental management, the probability of pest occurrence can be reduced by 90%. It is recommended to save this article's control calendar, regularly check the condition of the plants, and ensure the succulents safely survive the summer.