Plant problems and solutions
Several problems may develop when green plants are grown indoors. Problems may result from adverse environmental conditions, insects or plant diseases. Plants should continuously be checked for these disorders and treated at first detection.
ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS
Most plant problems are caused by one or several environmental factors; the wrong soil mix, too much or too little light, water or fertilizer or too low or too high humidity or temperature. Provide the growing environment recommended for each plant. Some of the most common prob¬lems are:
1. Brown leaf tips or burned leaf margins, which result from too much fertilizer or excessively dry soil.
2. Yellowing or dropping leaves, caused by low light intensity, chilling, overwatering, poor soil drainage or root decay from soil borne insect pests or diseases.
3. Weak growth or light green or yellow leaves, caused by too intense light, lack of fertilizer, root rot or a poor root system.
4. Small leaves and long internodes, which result from extreme low light levels.
CONTROLLING INSECTS
Insect or mite infestations sometimes develop on green plants. The best defense against insects and mites is to keep plants clean. Eliminate any insects or pests while they are still young and few in number.
Plants should be carefully checked before pur¬chase and isolated for a few weeks from other plants inside the home or office after purchase.
Some green plant pests can be controlled by dabbing the pest with a cotton swab which has been dipped in household alcohol or by washing plant leaves and stems with mild, soapy water. Because alcohol may burn plant leaves, evaluate its affect by wiping it on just a portion of a leaf as a test.
Other insects require the use of insecticides for control. Insecticides are poisonous, can be harmful and should be used with extreme caution. Keep insecticides out of the reach of children and pets.
Before purchasing or applying an insecticide, carefully read the entire container label. The kinds of insects the insecticide is effective against and the type of plants it can be used on. Some insecticides are damaging to green plants.
APPLYING INSECTICIDES
There are two general methods of applying insecticides: spraying the plant and drenching the soil. No matter which method you choose, apply the correct insecticide only in the recommended amount. Consult the florist where you purchase your plants for information.
Spraying is one method of application. To apply, wear protective gloves and spray stems, leaves and leaf undersides thoroughly.
Drenching is a method used to exterminate insects in the soil. Soil should be well watered prior to application. Wear protective gloves and water the soil thoroughly with the correct insecticide solution.
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