Pests and diseases can completely eradicate a crop. Commercial growers combat these problems by use of a large array of chemicals but the organic approach is to provide the optimum growing conditions to ensure healthy plants and accept some losses will occur. Certain other practices can also promote a healthy environment for plant growth. Firstly, crop rotation, as discussed under the planning section, can reduce the build up of pests and diseases which effect a particular vegetable family. Secondly, keep all your equipment clean which includes your footwear, tools, plant containers and propagator. Thirdly, always follow guidelines for planting times, spacing, feeding and watering to discourage pests and diseases. Fourthly, always use disease resistant varieties when available. And finally, undertake, if time permits, a daily inspection of your plot to catch problems early and which will allow you to deal with problems at an early stage. ![]() ![]() Planting nectar supplying flowers can attract beneficial insects to your garden which may naturally deal with any pests present. For example, attract ladybirds to your garden which eat aphids and blackfly. The most common Cypriots pests and diseases Ants: These take away newly planted seeds. If possible, locate the nest by following their trail and pour boiling water into their holes. Moist beds also act as a deterrent. Aphids: Can destroy plants by sucking the sap out of young plants. Plant ladybird attracting plants such as fennel, dill and caraway and the ladybirds will consume large amounts of aphids daily. Greenfly: Can attack legumes, spray with liquid seaweed twice weekly to eradicate this pest. Whitefly: Mainly effect brassicas and can be sprayed with liquid seaweed or diluted biodegradable washing-up liquid twice weekly to destroy the whitefly. Blackfly: Can effect broad beans and spinach. Pinch out the tender shoots on broad beans to deter or spray with diluted biodegradable washing-up liquid. Mildew: Can effect tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, peppers, garlic and aubergines. Try to avoid wetting plants when watering and remove any badly affected vegetables. Fungal Diseases: These can be in the form of rust, rot or blight. The first two mainly affect the onion family and legumes and can be minimised by not over watering and ensuring good drainage. Blight mainly affects vegetables of the potato and tomato family and if particular plants become badly affected it is best to remove and burn. |
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