How to prevent garden climbing plants and perennials from being damaged?

Climbing plants are generally resistant to disease especially if they are propagated and cared for correctly. If the plant is not cared for correctly then damage normally occurs.

Treating damaged plants

It is good practice go regularly check for any damage or disease so that necessary measures are taken quickly before the threat spreads. Bacterial infections are severe and once the plant has them it needs to be removed from the garden.

Pests and fungal diseases are easy to control especially in the early stages of infection. Infected parts can be cut off and cut edges need to be dusted with charcoal powder to disinfect them.

Mechanical Control

This is suitable when the damage is less severe. Pests can be washed off using an ordinary garden hose or removed by hand.

Biological Control

Stick tags can be hung on the infested parts of the plant. They are colourful and will attract pests such as the white fly. The pests will become stuck on the surface of the tag.

Pyrethrum-containing agent contain an extract of a Chrysathemum species and are ideal to combat aphids, white fly and other sucking insects. Care has to be taken as these agents also kill useful insects.

WARNING: Pyrethrum containing agents are harmful if they enter the blood stream. Wear plastic gloves when using these agents

Useful Inserts

You can get ride of pests by introducing their natural enemies where the pests are concentrated. Predatory mites can be used to combat spider mites and Australian ladybirds against mealy bugs. Be careful not to replace one infestation with another.

Non-toxic sprays

Aphids can be sprayed with a soap solution. Oil containing substances such as paraffin kill mealy bugs, spider mites and scale inserts by clogging up their respiratory systems.

Chemical Agents

Chemical plant protection agents should be used only after all other techniques have been used and failed. This is because they kill both the pests and useful insects. The pest or disease must be identified correctly so that the proper agent can be used.

When handling plant protecting agents never use highly toxic substances. Instructions for use must be carefully followed and do not eat, drink or smoke while spraying the agents. Do not inhale the spray mist. Avoid spraying on windy days to prevent the spray from dispersing into surrounding areas

Store plant protection agents in there original package and keep away from pets and children.