Learning how to water plants to increase growth in pots, container or garden - especially how to water roots and tubers. Specialities: root growth or tuber growth of lawns, fuchsias, geraniums, dahlias and begonias.

5 August 2011

Not Virus Infection On Dahlias

dahlia leaf after feedingIt doesn't look as if the dahlia leaf problem was caused by a virus (see 'Mottled Dahlia Leaf?'. New leaves are now looking quite healthy after feeding, and the leaf discolouration does not seem to have spread.

GIVEN FEED WITH TRACE ELEMENTS
phostrogen nutrient analysisDahlias are often short of trace elements at this stage of growth, and applying these usually significantly brightens flower colour. Seaweed feeds are very good. But I used good old 'Phostrogen' because its analysis shows it not only contains trace elements but is also rich in potassium, which is also beneficial for flower production.

ALSO SPRAYED FOR THRIPS
I also sprayed with thiacloprid to control thrips. This should also control aphids (which spread viruses) and other pests till the end of the season. Pity it doesn't also control snails!

No comments: