INSECT/PEST SYMPTOMS TREATMENT
Spidermites Webbing may be seen, Isotox
usually under leaves. Tenderleaf Spray
To test for mites: tap leaf Systemic insecticide
while holding white paper Malathion
underneath check for Kelthane
moving specks on paper
Mealy Bugs Appear as cottony clusters Malathion
on undersides of leaves or at Systemic insecticide
leaf and stem intersections, Whitefly & Mealy
sections, new growth and Bug spray
stem tips.
Scale Infested area will have brown Malathion
bumps on leaves and Systemic insecticide
sometimes stems. Whitefly & Mealy
Bug spray
Springtail Little hopping insects visible Malathion
everywhere - no obvious (used as a soil drench
damage will be visible. -cover entire pot with
plastic bag so that fumes
penetrate soil).
Thrips Small dark squigglers will Malathion
fall from cut flowers dead Tenderleaf Spray
brown streaks appear on new
or opening buds - new buds
may open misshapen
Aphids Clear sticky substance found Isotox
on leaves and stem indicate Systemic insecticide
the presence of aphids - usually Tenderleaf Spray
found on new growth - may be Malathion
green, red, yellow, brown or black.
White Fly White snow flake size insects White & Mealy bug Spray
fly up when plant is disturbed - Malathion
symptons are pale leaves,
wilting of part or entire plant.
Sowbugs Usually don't do any damage - Nothing is necessary,
feed on organic matter. but if annoying use:
Diazinon or Spectracide.
Bringing in houseplants from outside:
When bringing your houseplants inside for the winter, you should follow a few simple steps to avoid insect infestation.
While your plant is still outside, spray with diazinon (follow all directions carefully). Make sure to coat both the upper and lower surface of the foliage. Then, in a gallon container, mix the diazinon (again, according to the directions) and pour the solution into the soil.
After being outside for the summer, plants need to get used to the indoors again. This must be done gradually. Put your plants on the porch or at least close to the house for approximately three (3) days. Be aware of the night temperatures so as to avoid any damage from an untimely frost.
Now you're ready to bring your plant inside. Use systemic granules (an insecticide that's put into the soil and then absorbed into the system of the plant) for added protection against unwanted pests. Be sure to meet the light requirements of your plant as best as you can. Avoid over watering.
CAUTION:
It is recommended that all sprays be used in a well ventilated area and away from food handling areas. Spray concentrates that need mixing should be used in a slightly weak dilution. Applications may have to be repeated every 3 to 5 days because insecticides will not kill insects eggs.
Non-Chemical Controls:
Not always as quick or effective as chemical means, the following treatments are only useful
against: aphids, mealy bugs and thrips. Hand remove insects. Swab infested areas with alcohol and rinse with clear water. Use 2 tsp. detergent to one gallon of water, spray, then rinse. Isolate diseased plants to prevent spreading of infestation. Grind up one garlic clove or one large onion with one quart of water - strain solids and mist plant. Allow solution to remain on leaves for about ten minutes then rinse thoroughly.
Happy Gardening!
Bloomin Garden Centre & Landscaping
8793 Kenwood Road, Cincinnati OH 45242
Garden Store: 513-891-9035
Landscaping: 513-984-TREE
Fax: 513-891-9276
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