There are no shortcuts to proper maintenance of ornamental plants in a garden. With the heavy rainfall we have been experiencing, fungus and pests proliferate.
These virus and diseases can spread rapidly causing loss of plants. Ignoring plants and their problems would not make the virus go away.
This week I am trying to save 300 plus ornamental plants that have been crying out for help a long time now. By the time I got to the plants and assessed the situation a small per cent of the badly affected plants had to be removed and destroyed to prevent the fungus from spreading. The remaining plants were treated with a first application of the necessary fungicide. A second application would be needed until the fungus has been cleared up. All plants were also trimmed and groomed.
In situations like this, please check your plants thoroughly. From the time you see the leaves falling, yellowing or with black spots, place a few leaves in a see-through plastic bag and knot the top and head for the nearest Agri Centre to seek help.
As the heavy rainfall continues, check your soil and plant pots to make sure that you have proper drainage and that your soil is not too soggy. If this happens, you would need to loosen up the soil, bind the soggy soil with a little sand and clear the drainage holes so that the excess water can flow out. Extend some care and love to your plants they will reward you with many beautiful flowers and healthy leaves.
Until next week, Happy Gardening.
