My garden consists of a balcony on the north side with a little bit of eastern exposure with a little morning sun. I've had so much trouble with bugs and mildew. I've been dumping plants all summer and buying new ones. Even begonias and impatiens didn't do well. First it was aphids, then mildew, then white flies. I did so much spraying with all kinds of things including insecticide. The bugs finally seem to be gone but the plants look terrible. The leaves have white stuff on them and some have black.
Every
growing season seems to have its challenges. Hot dry weather is great for the bugs and stressful on the
plants. Heavy rains help dislodge
many of the insects but often increase disease problems. Here are a couple things that may
help. Evaluate the sunlight
throughout the day during the growing season. You may be surprised to find your balcony provides enough
light for you to grow partially shaded plants. If not continue to grow impatiens, begonias, coleus, caladium,
calla lilies and other shade tolerant plants. You may even want to try a few low light houseplants like philodendron,
pothos, cast iron plant, ferns, Chinese evergreen, and peace lily. Then make sure plants have plenty of
space. Good light and air
circulation will reduce disease problems like powdery mildew. Start with clean pots and fresh soil
next season. Carefully inspect new
plants and only purchase those free of insects and disease. Once problems occur, try handpicking
insects and spotted leaves or use some of the more environmentally friendly
products like Neem (formulations for insect and disease control), insecticidal
soap and hot pepper wax. Outdoor
plants can usually tolerate white flies.
If treatment is needed you will need to make three applications of
permethrin 5 days apart. And if
you miss one application you need to start over. Be sure to read and follow all label directions before using
any chemicals. And take heart,
there is always next season.