Common pests of saffron (crocus) and their control methods

Saffron borer

Hazard phenomenon

Autumn is the high-risk period for borer insects to develop, which are extremely harmful to saffron inflorescences. Once the insects bore into the inflorescences, the flowers will die, seriously affecting the appearance and yield.

Prevention and treatment methods

During the peak period of insect pests, remove adult insects promptly and promptly.

During the budding stage, apply methyl parathion to the leaves for 2 to 3 times to kill the borers.

Saffron root nematode

Hazard phenomenon

Root nematodes mainly parasitize on the roots of plants, absorbing nutrients from the roots, causing the plants to rot. The aboveground parts of the affected plants grow short and slow, with abnormal leaf color, few fruits and low yields, and may even cause the plants to die prematurely.

Prevention and treatment measures

Disinfect the soil and bulbs before planting, and choose bulbs with strong disease resistance for planting.

If root nematodes are found, water the diseased plants with 1000 times diluted 50% thiophanate-methyl. When the pest is serious, remove the plant from the pot, clean the root system, change the soil and replant.

Saffron aphids

Hazard phenomenon

Aphids often gather on the heart leaves and secrete nectar when damaging the leaves, affecting photosynthesis and yield quality. The leaves of plants infested with aphids will be damaged to varying degrees, the flowers will droop, and in severe cases the bulbs will rot and degenerate, affecting their appearance.

Prevention and treatment methods

If you find aphids infesting leaves, remove them immediately and scrape them off with a bamboo stick or clean water.

When the damage is serious, spray 40% Dimethoate EC as an insecticide. Spraying 2 to 3 times can kill aphids.

Strengthen maintenance at ordinary times, ventilate frequently, and apply appropriate amount of phosphorus fertilizer to enhance the disease resistance of the plants. After the flowers fade, trim the dead branches and flowers in time to ensure the surface of the potting soil is clean.