Hello, Sahabat Tani (Farmer Friends)!
Have you ever felt frustrated because a plant you’ve cared for so lovingly suddenly wilts, has holes in its leaves, or dies unexpectedly? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Plant pests and diseases are a major challenge for farmers and gardening hobbyists alike.
This article will help you identify common types of pests and diseases that attack plants, along with both natural and modern ways to deal with them. Get ready to take notes!
Why Do Plants Get Pests and Diseases?
1. Unhealthy Environment
High humidity, poor drainage, or lack of sunlight can create a paradise for fungi and bacteria.
2. Lack of Crop Rotation
Planting the same crops repeatedly in the same soil can exhaust it and make it more susceptible to pathogens.
3. Overuse of Fertilizer
Too much fertilizer can lead to pest outbreaks—like an explosion in aphid populations.
Common Pests and How to Handle Them
1. Aphids
Signs: Curled leaves, stunted plant growth.
✅ Solutions:
- Spray with a gentle soap solution (liquid soap + water).
- Release natural predators like ladybugs.
2. Armyworms (Caterpillars)
Signs: Holes in leaves, young stems snapped.
✅ Solutions:
- Use garlic and chili solution as a spray.
- Hand-pick caterpillars in the morning or evening.
3. Thrips
Signs: Yellowing leaves, flowers fall before blooming.
✅ Solutions:
- Use blue sticky traps.
- Spray with papaya leaf extract as a natural insecticide.
Common Plant Diseases and Their Solutions
1. Root Rot
Cause: Waterlogging, pathogenic fungi.
✅ Solutions:
- Replace the planting medium.
- Use pots with proper drainage holes.
2. Powdery Mildew
Signs: Leaves covered with white powder.
✅ Solutions:
- Spray with milk solution (milk:water = 1:10).
- Cut off infected leaves.
3. Fusarium Wilt
Cause: Fusarium fungi in the soil.
✅ Solutions:
- Sterilize soil before planting.
- Choose disease-resistant plant varieties.
Prevention Is Better than Cure
- Use high-quality compost (you can make your own, Sahabat Tani!) to support healthy soil microorganisms.
- Spray organic concoctions regularly.
- Keep your garden clean: remove dead leaves or plant parts.
Conclusion
Pests and diseases are like small tests for Sahabat Tani. But with enough knowledge and consistent care, they can be overcome. The key is to stay motivated and keep learning from your gardening experience.