Information About Diseases, Insects And Cultural Reference
Most helpful horticultural books include information about diseases, insects, and cultural or physiological ailments that may beset the plants discussed. And if the plants belong to one family or are closely related, the information is specific, authoritative, and complete.
Vines and hanging plants belong to many families, not related at all. And although, as a group, these plants are relatively free from problems, the troubles they do have are different in different parts of the country.
It’s not practical to include specific information down to the last detail. The lace bug that attacks one vine can be different from the lace bug on another. Your aphids may be of a different color from mine.
Your weather may not favor red spider mite, but mine does. Available chemicals and other remedies also vary according to locality. And in the war against plant pests and diseases, the constant discoveries of new chemicals make any definitive list out-of-date before it can be set in type.
Nor should a discussion of such widely varying plants, growing in such widely varying climates, attempt to be authoritative. The most reliable authority you can consult is the man in your area – nurseryman, consultant at your botanical garden or horticultural society, or County Agricultural Agent – who knows what pests and diseases are prevalent and how to cope with them.
Give him complete and accurate information to go on. Describe the plant’s growing conditions, the troublesome symptoms, and if possible show a sample of the afflicted plant parts so he can see the damage for himself.
Prevention
Plants in good health are least likely to be susceptible to attack by insects and disease. Good cultural practices – proper soil mixture, fertilizer, light, air circulation, humidity, and the like – are the best possible protection. Don’t let vines get overgrown and overcrowded. Don’t force soft growth by overfeeding. Don’t overlook the importance of good drainage. And as you care for indoor and outdoor vines, keep a vigilant eye on tender, young growing tips. That’s where you will usually spot the first signs of trouble.
Preventive spraying or dusting also pays off. An all-purpose combination of insecticides and fungicides applied twice a year outdoors, more frequently indoors, will often ward off trouble. Try to find one formulated particularly for your area.
Attention to sanitation and neatness can’t be too scrupulous. Many diseases and pests live and breed in decaying flowers, leaves, stems. Removing all dead or dying growth eliminates their hiding place. Clean pots, flats, and tools are also essential.
Before you place them permanently near healthy plants, check any new plant acquisitions carefully. If you suspect that all is not well, isolate the newcomers until your suspicions are confirmed or not.
It’s the epitome of false economy to try to save a plant suffering from a seriously infectious insect or disease, at the risk of losing its companions and neighbors. Rip out and destroy one plant before you lose many.
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