What Diseases Does Cereus Spp. Have?
As a star plant of the Cactaceae family, Cereus spp. is deeply loved by horticulture enthusiasts for its unique shape. However, its succulent stems are highly susceptible to diseases in high temperatures and humidity. This article systematically analyzes the characteristics and control strategies of five typical diseases to help you create healthy plants.
In-depth Analysis of Cereus Spp. Scab Disease
Symptom Identification and Transmission Pathways
The stem surface appears light brown circular sunken spots, which later expand into scab-like lesions with a diameter of 2-5mm. The pathogen is spread through irrigation water splashes, and the risk of infection triples when the relative humidity exceeds 80% during the rainy season.
Comprehensive Control Plan
Lesions can initially be removed with a sterile blade, and the wound can be treated with charcoal powder to promote healing. It is recommended to use a combination of triazole fungicides for three-dimensional control: dilute 40% triazole·polyoxine at a ratio of 1:50 and spray, focusing on the junctions of the stem segments, once a week for three weeks.
Cereus Spp. (T-J) Disease Attack and Defense System
Characteristics of Disease Progression
The typical symptom is dark brown concentric ring patterns, which expand rapidly in high temperatures, and can increase the lesion area by 30% within 24 hours. Wound invasion is the main infection route, and incomplete disinfection of pruning tools is an important cause.
Scientific Medication Guidelines
In the early stage of the disease, use a mixture of 70% methylthiophanate and 75% carbendazim (1:1), combined with 0.04% agricultural silicone synergist, which can increase the adherence rate of the fungicide by 40%. For severe infections, it is recommended to propagate from healthy stem segments.
Three Major Extended Disease Controls
Emergency Measures for Soft Rot Disease
Infected plants show watery softening and emit a foul odor. The diseased parts need to be cut away until healthy tissue is exposed, and then the cut surface should be soaked in IBA rooting powder solution for 2 hours before being replanted.
Key Points of Management for Stem Blight Disease
The typical feature is grayish-white mold spots with concentric rings. It is recommended to use a combination of 50% iprodione 500 times liquid and potassium fulvate foliage fertilizer for control, which not only kills the pathogen but also enhances stress resistance.
Comprehensive Control of Root Rot Disease
Use high-temperature steam sterilization to treat the cultivation substrate, and maintain a pH value between 6.0-7.5. Monthly application of Bacillus subtilis bacterial agents to the roots effectively inhibits the reproduction of soil-borne pathogens.
Systematic Maintenance Strategies
Establish a preventive maintenance system: ① Use ceramsite as a base to enhance drainage ② Maintain a day-night temperature difference of more than 8°C ③ Rotate the use of fungicides with different mechanisms of action every quarter ④ Install a mini circulation fan to ensure air circulation.
By accurately identifying disease types and combining environmental regulation with scientific medication, the incidence of diseases in Cereus spp. can be significantly reduced. It is recommended to establish a disease control log, recording each treatment measure and the plant's response, to gradually develop a personalized maintenance plan.