Plant Pests and BonsaiGrowing bonsai? Knowing plant pests comes with the territory!
Because we use many different kinds of plants to create bonsai trees, there are many different problems to watch for. Any article about bonsai plant care is not complete without this discussion. Not all plants are susceptible to the same problems. Each time you adventure to another species, research the potential pests and diseases for that plant. Junipers such as this cascade by Ed Trout, Ft. Lauderdale, FL are susceptible to red spider mites. If you don’t know what’s crawling on your tree, or why your tree is doing something weird (like wilting or dropping leaves), always ask! Remember, just as there are good reasons for some plants to wilt or drop leaves; there are also many more “good bugs” than bad. If you don't know, never spray pesticides first! These are some of the bad ones:
Be sure to read the details of what really causes this ugly "black dirt" on your bonsai trees. One that is often missed! Virtually all woody plants and trees are subject to borer attacks.
Borers nearly always attack unhealthy or stressed plants or trees. Although you may think your tree is healthy, what about the injuries from cutting? These 'wounds' can be entry places for borers. Not as common as many other plant pests; they are something to always be aware of. Some bore deeply into the wood however, many bore just under the bark. Sometimes you will see small holes in the trunk or limbs with fine sawdust directly beneath them. When you see these signs, find the soft area. Try to gouge out the area as soon as possible. Don't stop digging around soft spots until you find something. Beetle and/or larvae are almost always still there! You may end up with a terrific shari or (as in the ugly damage shown here) -- you may not be so lucky!
Read more about borers.
Not Too Common Plant PestsEvery once in a while you may come across something really odd, be sure to check it out! One example that rarely shows up is "pit scale".When it does appear, it can be devastating. Nashia inaguensis is one species it is particularly attracted to. Another terrible invasion can come from
root mealy bugs!
More Common Plant PestsDetails on some of the other most common plant pests including:galls, leafminers and thrips can be found at the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences web site. IFAS may become one of your favorite pest information sources. If you can’t find what you’re looking for there, contact your local Cooperative Extension Service. I’m always pleased with their friendly and helpful response. Top of Page
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We often assume they only attack our juniper bonsai, not so! I have seen them on everything from regular house plants to trees in the yard. 
This Month's
Feature Page...
The Bonsai Articles Page holds a few surprises!
Bonsai Beginners,
Don't Miss ...
There are a number of bonsai articles on this site. Two of them are especially good for newcomers.
The first is important advice from an old timer and has become known as
"The Stuff Article."
Many teachers and clubs have reprinted Ten Steps for their members and students. For reprint details contact BonsaiMary.
Before you buy your first tools, be sure to read it.
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