Every season, plants growing on a balcony or in a garden must be provided with special care. Quite vulnerable, they must be preserved from threats that may hinder their growth. Some techniques need to be applied in order to better protect them from many potential attacks. Thus, one must have the proper equipment and know certain specific methods. Plant protection is necessary to obtain a green garden.

Plant maintenance requires the roots and leaves to be treated as well. Young shoots and flowers, when they are not hampered by weeds, can also be destroyed by diseases and insects. Shears, a watering can, gloves and a billhook are among the essential tools needed for plant maintenance. If the spraying of insecticide is needed, a spraying device is also quite helpful. It is recommended to learn about the characteristics and specificities of plants in order to better provide them with appropriate care.

Eliminating weeds

Weeds can smother plants. Growing randomly, they prevent other plants from growing properly. Weeding is a procedure that needs to be performed periodically. Destined for lawn use, specific products available in specialized shops need to be spread on the ground. These liquid solutions progressively eliminate weeds, and stimulate grass regrowth. Moss can damage the grass but can be eradicated by using whitewash or anti-moss products. In spring, it is recommended to set up a layer of mulch, made from tree bark, to prevent the regrowth of weeds in the flowerbeds. Hand weeding is an effective alternative to many industrial herbicides because these products are only effective against certain species of weeds.

Protection against disease

Many plants and fruit trees may be affected by certain diseases. Scab is one of the most widespread disease, particularly in regard to pear trees and apple trees. Infected branches have brown spots and the fruits are stained with black scars and lesions. Mildew, a mould that turns leaves white and soft, can contaminate flowers and vegetables such as potatoes. Among vegetables, the disease is made apparent by white and brown spots on the leaves. Rust is easily recognized by the yellowing of leaves, and the subsequent rot that quickly reaches the fruits. The best technique to fight against these diseases is to apply an appropriate fungicide. The use of sulphur has the disadvantage of yellowing leaves.

Protecting plants from animals and insects

Weeds, insects, and diseases harmful to plant development. The caterpillars that eat the leaves, or Heteroptera that will suck the plant’s sap and leave traces, are to be removed. Also, take special care to eradicate slugs that seep into the fruits and eat through them while leaving a shiny trail behind. To eliminate these pests, you must spray the plant with insecticide. Rodents such as rats and mice, moles, and some birds are also harmful to plants of which they eat the fruit. Baits are excellent ways to neutralize them. Birds must be driven out with a scarecrow or kept away by a safety net placed on young shoots and shrubs.

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Published in Care by Alexander on 06 Jul 2011