I prefer to grow seedlings of rather whimsical eggplants on my own. In order not to miss the moment when the seedlings stop their normal development, I systematically examine the seedlings. Sometimes I notice that the leaves turn white. In such a situation, you need to understand the reason that caused such a symptom, and then begin measures to save the seedlings.
What factors cause whitening of leaves and measures to combat them
I take into account that only strong, disease-free seedlings allow you to get a predictable rich harvest of eggplant. White marks, sagging, specks on the leaf plates of young seedlings always serve as a signal for a careful examination of them. It is possible to save plants if the cause of trouble is correctly established.
Fungal infections
I notice such a common disease as powdery mildew, according to a characteristic whitish coating.
Another dangerous fungal infection, known as fusarium, at the initial stage is manifested by the appearance of a pale color of the leaf plates, which dry out quickly.
For treatment, I practice irrigation with antifungal drugs, for example, I use Gliocladin, Trichodermin, Oxyhom, Fitosporin, etc.
To prevent fungal infections, I disinfect the inoculum in a solution of potassium permanganate, which I prepare at a low concentration until a pale pink color appears. In the garden, I return eggplants to the old ridge after 4-5 years.
Moisture deficiency
Since eggplants are varieties of moisture-loving plants, they react to excessive drying of the soil by wilting the leaves, which become pale with noticeable light dots. I irrigate with settled, slightly warmed water every 5-7 days.
Nutrient deficiency
Noticeable white marks on leaves that have lost their juiciness often appear if the soil is depleted in essential trace elements. For planting, I select neutral soil with a good indicator of friability. The site should not be subjected to prolonged waterlogging. I do not place eggplant in places where peppers, tomatoes or potatoes were cultivated.
Potassium deficiency is indicated by yellowing, followed by lightening and drying of the leaf border. I use gold.
I understand that plants are deficient in nitrogen when their growth is significantly slowed down. White marks appear on the smaller leaves. In such a situation, I carry out top dressing using a mineral complex with a high content of nitrogen component.
sunburn
At home, the cause of the development of clarified stains on the leaf surface can be sunburn, so I provide for the protection of seedlings from the burning midday rays. If I notice such manifestations after the eggplants are planted on the ridge, I install special shields to reduce the intensity of sunlight.
Pests
Realizing that white dots, spots, marks can be a signal that eggplants have been attacked by harmful insects, I carefully examine each bush. Noticing the presence of whiteflies, sciarids, spider mites or aphids, I immediately apply specialized preparations. I prefer Iskra, Agroverin or Fitoverm.
I also use folk methods:
- I combine rhizomes and dandelion leaves in equal proportions. I grind 300 g of raw materials and place them in a tank, where I pour 10 liters of water. After 4-5 hours, I irrigate the seedlings with a filtered solution.
- I measure tobacco dust and ash 1 glass each. I steam the mixture with 1 liter of boiling water. I last 24 hours. I fill it with cool water, bringing it to a volume of 10 liters. I dissolve liquid soap (2 tbsp. l.). I am spraying the plants.
To effectively get rid of the remaining larvae and small insects, I prepare a solution based on powdered or grated laundry soap, which I wipe on all sides of the sheet plates.
In order to scare away the malicious midge, I powder the surface of the ridges with ground red pepper.
Light whitish marks often become noticeable on the foliage of eggplants during the period when they are adapting to new conditions. Given the various reasons that provoke the whitening of leaf plates, it is necessary to correctly organize measures to save them.
What ways do you know? Tell us about them in the comments, please.
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