Like any other plant around us, cannabis is also susceptible to different types of diseases and pests. In some instances, the symptoms of these infections and irritants are only visible at a stage when it is extremely difficult to save the affected plant. This is why it is important for cannabis startups to have the ability to identify cannabis pests and diseases at the earliest.
Mentioned below are some of the most common cannabis pests and diseases, as shortlisted by well-known cannabis seed bank i49. If you are a cannabis grower, you can take a look at i49 for a wide range of seeds suitable for your needs.
Cannabis Infections:
- Bud Rot: Also known as grey mold, bud rot propagates very quickly and can destroy an entire cannabis crop within just a few days. This type of infection starts when the humidity is too high and the temperature is relatively lower. Bud rot is encouraged by poor ventilation or air circulation in the grow room. When bud rots are noticed in a plant, remove the infected area as well as up to one inch below it.
- Root Rot: Root rot is caused when the grow room or garden has a very high temperature and the roots of the plant are not able to receive enough oxygen. This type of infection is quite common when the hydroponics technique is used to grow cannabis. Root rot affected cannabis plants often stop growing because the roots do not deliver adequate nutrients. As a result of nutrient deficiency, the leaves may turn yellow. The affected roots will be slimy, stinky, and brown in color. To prevent this infection, ensure that the soil is light and loose, and allows sufficient drainage.
- Tobacco Mosaic Virus: Other than tobacco plants, the Tobacco Mosaic Virus also affects plants such as petunias, tomatoes, and cannabis. Affected plants develop light green sections on the leaves. Plants may also become stunted. Though the affected plants will not die, their yield will decrease drastically. To avoid spreading the virus, the affected plant must be removed immediately.
- White Powdery Mildew or Mold: Cannabis plants exposed to too much humidity without adequate circulation can easily develop white powdery mildew or mold. Luckily, however, it is possible to wipe away the mildew on cannabis leaves with plain water. Check the leaves regularly to prevent mold from spreading. It is possible to prevent the growth of mildew by leaving sufficient space for airflow.
Cannabis Pests:
- Spider Mites: Cannabis plants can get quickly infested by the tiny spiders, resulting in damaged leaves with a burnt appearance and brown and yellow dots. In case of a large infestation, the leaves may get encased within the webbing. As a preventative measure, organic insecticides are highly recommended. A diluted detergent can also be a good option.
- Aphids: Aphids are often found on the stem and the undersides of the leaves of cannabis plants. They feed on the sap of the plant and cause the leaves to wilt or turn yellow. The plant may also turn black because of a fungus that is found on aphid waste. It is important to detect the presence of aphids early by careful examination at regular intervals. Once they have developed, insecticide soaps can be used to eliminate them.
- Fungus Gnats: These little black flies are often seen around the soil surrounding the cannabis plants. They don’t pose any threat in small quantities. However, their larvae can remain concealed in the soil and cause nutrient deficiencies and eat away at the roots. Too much stagnant water and poor air circulation are favorable conditions for the growth of fungus gnats. It is possible to prevent these pests by ensuring that the top layer of the soil is completely dry between watering. This drying process can be accelerated by placing fans around the room.
