While there are different solutions for every plant and pest, there are some basic methods that can help you beat the pests. In this article, I will share some of the pest control guidelines I have learned in my years of botanical research and practice.
Step 1: Identify The Infestation
Before you start eliminating pests, you need to know exactly what kind of infestation you’re fighting. Different pests require different treatment methods, so you need to carefully observe the plant and record the following information:
Types of pests: such as aphids, mites, white whitefly, etc.
Number of pests: You need to know how many bugs are on your plant.
Infestation Location: Where is the bug on the plant? Leaves, flowers, roots, etc.?
Effects of pests on plants: What parts of plants are damaged or killed by pests?
With this information, you can better understand the situation of the infestation and choose the right treatment method.
Step 2: Manual Deworming
Manual deworming is one of the easiest, most economical and environmentally friendly methods. You can use hand tools (such as scissors, tweezers, etc.) to manually pick off the bugs or cut off the infected plant parts. This method is especially suitable for situations where the number of pests is small.
When manually deworming, the following points need to be noted:
1. Wear gloves to avoid insect irritation or damage to plants.
2. Place the infected plant parts in a plastic bag and seal them so the bugs don’t re-infect other plants.
3. Wash hand tools frequently to avoid spreading eggs or germs to other plants.
Step 3: Use Natural Pesticides
Natural pesticides are chemicals derived from natural plants that can effectively kill bugs while having no negative effects on the plants or the environment. Here are some common natural pesticides:
Nicotine
Nicotine is an effective insecticide that kills aphids and other feeding insects. You can soak tobacco in water and then spray it on infected plants.
Chili peppers
The capsaicin in chili peppers can kill bugs by stimulating their nerves. You can mix paprika in water and then spray it on infected plants.
Chrysanthemin
Chrysanthemin is a natural insecticide derived from chrysanthemums that kills aphids, whiteflies and other succulent insects. You can mix chrysanthemum pigment in water and then spray it on infected plants.
When using natural insecticides, the following points should be noted:
1. Follow the instructions in the manual and do not overuse.
2. Before spraying, conduct a small area test to ensure that the plants will not be damaged.
3. Take care to protect your skin and eyes and avoid direct contact with natural pesticides.
Step 4: Use Chemical Pesticides
If manual deworming and natural insecticides do not solve the pest problem, you may consider using chemical insecticides. Chemical pesticides can kill bugs quickly and effectively, but they have negative effects on plants and the environment, so extreme caution is needed when using them.
Here are some common chemical pesticides:
Carbamate: Carbamate is a broad spectrum insecticide that can kill a variety of insects. You can spray it on infected plants.
Cypermethrin: Cypermethrin is a highly effective insecticide that kills a variety of predatory insects. You can spray it on infected plants.
Sulfate: Sulfate is a fungicide and insecticide that kills fungi and various insects. You can spray it on infected plants.
When using chemical pesticides, the following points should be noted:
1. Follow the instructions in the manual and do not overuse.
2. Before spraying, conduct a small area test to ensure that the plants will not be damaged.
3. Take care to protect your skin and eyes from direct contact with chemical pesticides.
4. Keep chemical pesticides out of reach of children and pets.
Conclusion
Eliminating bugs from plants requires patience and care, as well as an understanding of different pests and treatment methods. Manual deworming, natural insecticides and chemical insecticides are all ways to eliminate pests, but each method has its advantages and disadvantages and needs to be selected according to the specific situation. Above all, protecting the health of plants and the environment is always our top priority.
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