We only realize how important plant care actually is after a severe infestation of pests or diseases on our plants. The driving idea behind the use of plant care products or crop protection is clear: to avoid and actively counteract infestation with pests and diseases. This leads to a good appearance of your houseplants and ensures you the yield of vegetables, herbs and fruits. On top of that, you save time by using products on your plant, because then you no longer have to fight diseases and pests.
What are the most common houseplant diseases?
Powdery mildew is one of the most common fungal diseases. This is a white and floury coating on and under the leaves of your plant. The best known are powdery mildew and downy mildew. The cause of powdery mildew is the Ascomycota mold, which spreads in warm and dry climates. Downy mildew is caused by the egg fungus Oomcyta, which multiplies in humid climates.
Leaf spot disease is caused by fungal infestation of the genera Alternaria, Ascochyta and Septoria. Mostly brown, black or yellow spots can be seen on the leaves, which are caused by moisture.
Black spot disease, also known as black spot or blackleg, is caused by a sac fungus infestation. This fungus resides in the soil and mostly causes stains on the leaves due to wetness. Another appearance of the fungus is the dark coloring of the shoot, which eventually dies.
Gray mold causes brown spots on leaves and fruits, which then quickly rot and later become furry. This disease is also caused by a sac fungus.
What are the most common houseplant pests?
The most common pest infestations are due to fungus gnats, among other things. These are small black mosquitoes that lay their eggs in the soil and eat the roots of your plant. Most often, an infestation occurs when a new plant is purchased that already has eggs or mosquitoes in the soil and then passes them on to your old green housemates.
Just as bad is an infestation of spider mites, white to yellowish mini spiders that stretch their webs under the leaves or on the stems and suck out the cells of your plant's leaves. This pest infestation is particularly aided by dry air.
Thrips, also known as thrips, can first be recognized as yellowish larvae on the underside of the leaves and stems of your plant and later become darker. Your plant's appearance will deteriorate with spots and bulging on the leaves. Thrips like and only multiply strongly in dry air.
Aphids are green, yellow or brown creatures that can attack weakened plants at low humidity. As a result, leaves become sticky, blotchy, and even dented.
Mealybugs, also known as mealybugs, are small, white, fluffy-looking critters on the leaves of your plant. When infested, leaves turn yellow and eventually fall off.
The reasons for crop protection and the list of possible pest and disease infestations is endless. If you actively prevent this with the right care products, you can save yourself and your beloved plants a lot of trouble! If you use the right fertilizer for your indoor plants , they become more vital and their natural defense system is supported.
