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How to Fight Scab on Potatoes: Advice from Gardeners
07.05.2024 19:30
Updated: 12.05.2024 23:58
Scab on potatoes is a common problem that many summer residents face.
How to fight scab? In specialized stores you can find hundreds of different preparations, but not all of them are effective.
The fight should always be individual, so several basic tips are worth examining in a little more detail, says Anastasia Kovrizhnykh .
The main thing is to identify problem areas
The first step to combating scab is to carefully inspect the potato field. It is important to identify areas with damaged leaves, insects or their larvae. This will help to focus on problem areas and take targeted measures.
Some summer residents try to fight this pest immediately and throughout the entire plot, but this is a mistake.
A simple example: scab always appears on a small piece, and then begins to actively spread throughout the entire area.
If the source of the outbreak is not identified in a timely manner, it will be impossible to talk about a real fight against this pest.
Attracting natural enemies
Some insects are natural enemies of scab and can help in its control. For example, the sirets is a good predator that feeds on scab larvae. You can try to attract sirets to the garden by creating conditions for its habitation, for example, by planting plants that attract it.
Biological drugs
In cases of severe scab infestation, biological products can be an effective solution to the problem.
They will help to quickly and effectively destroy insects and their larvae, saving the crop from further damage.
What to do if scab is spreading too actively in a potato field
Many summer residents do not want to use pesticides and other chemicals. And here it is important to ask the question: do you want to save the harvest?
Scab is a dangerous pest that spreads quickly. If the methods listed above do not produce the desired effect, it makes sense to turn to more effective drugs.
Preventive measures
Preventing scab infestation is also important in controlling this pest. Here are some tips:
1. Plants need to be thinned regularly.
2. Planting with distance. Scab often appears where planting is dense.
3. It is necessary to maintain an optimal level of humidity.
4. If leaves fall onto the ground, they must be removed immediately.
All this will reduce the likelihood of infection and promote overall plant health.
Earlier we talked about the correct pruning of currants .
