Bonsai common pests - Root mealy bugs.

in #bonsai7 years ago

These are a killer because they can go unseen for a long time and can result in the death of the tree if they are not treated.


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They are very similar to the foliage mealy bug except they grow on roots. If repotting is done regularly the roots can be inspected for them and then they can be easily detected. Otherwise they can be suspected if a trees growth seems slow, its leaves wilt and discolor and no other apparent cause can be found. In such cases the roots should be inspected because if its these critters causing those symptoms death of the plant will follow.

Root bound plants will encourage them and also be sure not to introduce them to your environment via new arrivals.

Their white residue can be detected on the sides and bottom of root bound plants.


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For this one, in most cases, prevention is better than cure.
They can be treated with systemic insecticides but repeated applications will be necessary.

Some success has been had with immersing the root ball in hot water but this is complex and should be thoroughly researched before attempting.

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Wow is a great photograph! I loved it, it's really beautiful!

Over here we use hot ash in treating wood eaters in a traditional means. But nice idea i will put that into considration.

Thank you for giving science this plant care is very useful for all people. I do not know whether it is a kind of parasite that attacks the plant.

Truth is: they're bugs, and bugs don't just go away, they require consistent treatment before they finally back off, or die. Any tree that gets attacked by these bugs, will surely be in for some trouble.

Post about your plants has shown a way of crop care many people who do not know about plant diseases. Thanks.

I do have a bonsai but it seams pretty healthy

have you tried predatory nematodes for those?

I recently lost 3 of my bonsai to poor care during the winter. I have checked for bugs on my remaining tree. Check out my update post and let me know if theres something im missing. https://steemit.com/bonsai/@pattoounlimited/update-my-first-bonsai-healing
Thanks for the share!