Cannabis is a rapidly growing industry in the United States. Legal marijuana represents a $2.7 billion market in 2013 alone, according to figures from The ArcView Group. Individual growers must protect their profit margins by investing heavily in the health of their plants. Even a small outbreak of disease can significantly reduce profitability, especially among small to medium growers. Understanding common diseases in plants and how to combat them can keep you ahead of the game.
Mold or Fungi
Fungal spores are so small that growers don’t notice their presence until the mold has seriously spread. Individual plants may become infected with mold during the delicate seedling stage, when the infection is called “damping off.” Alternatively, adult plants may show signs of fungal infection on stems, leaves, roots, or buds. The best way to prevent mold growth is to purify the air with a technology like AiroClean420, which neutralizes pathogens in the air.
Bacterial Infections are Common Diseases in Plants
Bacterial infections can be difficult to identify. Because bacteria are microscopic, they may spread over the plant without you noticing. If the plant becomes weaker because of other stressors (e.g., the other common diseases in plants listed on this page or environmental variables like overwatering), bacteria can quickly kill the whole plant. An air purification like AiroClean420 kills harmful bacteria, preventing their spread.
Pests
From aphids to white flies, there are all types of insects out to harm your cannabis plants. Pests typically feed on plants, leaching their nutrients and causing them to weaken. Natural sprays are a good way to get rid of pesky pests.
Nutrient Deficiency
Although not technically an infectious disease, nutrient deficiency is a leading cause of sick plants. Like humans, cannabis plants rely on a specific mix of nutrients to survive. Lacking minerals such as iron, copper, manganese, or phosphorus can cause your cannabis plants to fail to thrive. Look for wilting leaves or abnormal leaf color, which are common signs of nutrient deficiency. Fortunately, these deficiencies are straightforward to treat by supplementing your plants’ diet with the requisite nutrients.
Among all of the diseases in plants, outbreaks of mold and other pathogens can be most difficult to treat. Installing an air purification system can give you peace of mind that your plants will be all right. AiroClean420 technology was originally developed for NASA to prevent the spread of fungi in outer space. Installing this technology in your grow rooms and drying rooms can keep your crop safe. Contact us today to learn more about how our technology helps combat common diseases in plants.
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