“This bug didn’t just
make me feel sick to
my stomach because
of the destruction it
caused, but because it
straight kicked my ass!”
I know what you are thinking: “What the hell can I do
if I get root aphids?” Great
question; although, before I
answer it, I want to let you
know that there is no easy
solution to root aphids. If you
encounter root aphids, take a deep
breath and go through the process
with a more intent focus on learning from this
experience instead of just saving your crop.
Getting root aphids is not the end of the world; it’s just the
potential end of that grow. It is a great way to get experience
with root rot, testing pesticides, wilting, plant deficiency and
identifying bugs at a fast pace. My first suggestion would be to
go through this process all the way through until the plants die
or you feel you have learned everything you can learn.
The first time
When most growers first get root aphids, they don’t realize
that bugs are the core of their problem. Inexperienced growers normally treat for root rot (also known as pythium) by
using a disinfectant; this, however, only furthers the problem
by exposing even more roots for the root aphids. So, be sure
to take your time to look thoroughly at the problem and find
the main reason for your problem. By doing this, your small
infestation of root aphids will stay small. Don’t be a grower
that treats for every other problem except for the root aphid
until your plants die.
The solution
The solution described can only be used for growers that get
root aphids after the fourth week into flowering. Any grower
that gets root aphids indoors before the fourth week into
flowering should immediately kill their plants and go through the
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