The second instalment of the Root Awakening column for December 2009 was published today. The first question from a Straits Times Life! reader was about how festive citruses can be made to bear fruit while they are still small and seemingly young. Most of such plants are generally grown on a grafted rootstock. This rootstock is usually a vigorous citrus plant such as lemon and shoots from mature trees that are already flowering and fruiting are taken and then grafted to this rootstock.
The second question was similar to previous questions that have been published. It was about why the inflorescences of one’s orchid plant tend to turn brown and then die away. The problem is likely to be caused by excessive heat and moisture stress. Adding a little sphagnum moss around the root zone to help retain some moisture. It may be necessary to increase the frequency of watering too. Do also try to relocate the affected plant to a less windy area or provide some protection by putting up a barrier to wind by growing them amongst some plants. Check for spider mite and thrips infestations as well.
The last question dealt with the small, cottony insects that appear on a custard apple plant. The pests seen are likely to be mealy bugs. To eradicate these pests, one can spray infested plants using white summer oil or neem oil. Make sure every part of the plant is covered thoroughly, including the leaf undersides as well as any spaces between leaves. There is also a need to repeat application of the pesticide several times to ensure all progeny that hatch from eggs laid earlier are also eradicated. Check surrounding plants for any signs of infestations as well. Pests from these plants can migrate over at times. They should be sprayed as well if there is any signs of infestation.
