Common Disease and Pest Control for Jade Tree
As a common succulent ornamental plant, the Jade Tree is loved by gardening enthusiasts for its thick, emerald leaves. However, during the maintenance process, it often suffers from pest and disease attacks, which not only affect its appearance but also threaten the plant's health. This article will systematically analyze the identification and control methods for two typical diseases and pests of the Jade Tree, helping you create a strong and healthy Jade Tree bonsai.
Characteristics of Aphid Infestation and Integrated Control
Pest Identification and Harm Manifestation
Aphids prefer to gather on the tender parts of the Jade Tree, such as new buds and young leaves, and absorb sap through their piercing-sucking mouthparts, causing the leaves to curl and deform, and growth to stall. Their honeydew secretions can trigger sooty mold disease and simultaneously attract ants to form a symbiotic harm chain.
Five-Step Progressive Control Plan
1. Physical removal: Initially, use a soft brush dipped in a neutral detergent solution (1:200 concentration) to manually remove the pests. 2. Fumigation with pesticides: Soak a cloth in a diluted dichlorvos solution (0.1%) and cover the plant, then seal and fumigate for 24 hours. 3. Plant-derived insecticides: Use a cigarette butt soak (1:50) or onion juice (20g/1000ml) and spray twice daily. 4. Chemical control: Alternate the use of omethoate emulsion (1500 times dilution) and imidacloprid suspension (2000 times dilution). 5. Environmental regulation: Maintain ventilation and light, and regularly apply phosphorus and potassium fertilizers to enhance resistance.
Causes of Rot Disease and Systematic Response
Three Stages of Disease Development
Initial stage: Brown water-stained spots appear at the base, intermediate stage: Lesions expand to form soft rot, late stage: The entire plant shows a paste-like necrosis. In high humidity, the disease progresses rapidly, and the plant can die within 3-5 days.
Analysis of Pathogenic Factors
Soil compaction (aerobic capacity <30%), uncomposted organic fertilizers carrying pathogens, continuous watering leading to a substrate moisture content >80%, and environmental humidity consistently >75%.
Stereoscopic Control Strategy
• Surgical treatment: Excise the rotting tissue and apply Dakning ointment to the wound surface. • Substrate disinfection: Mix carbendazim (3g/kg soil) or use high-temperature steam sterilization when repotting. • Water and fertilizer management: Use the immersion pot method for watering and apply EM bacteria-fermented organic fertilizers. • Pesticide prevention: Apply zineb solution (0.2%) monthly during the growing season.
By establishing a maintenance system focused on prevention as the main and control as the secondary, the disease resistance of the Jade Tree can be significantly improved. It is recommended to conduct systematic checks monthly: observe the undersides of leaves for eggs, gently squeeze the stem to check firmness, and test the soil moisture content. Master the watering principle of "wet after dry," and combine it with annual substrate updates in the spring to keep the Jade Tree free from pest and disease troubles.