Gardening can be a delightful hobby, but when galls appear on our beloved plants due to pests and parasites, it can be disheartening. Whether caused by mites in fuchsia, midges in aquilegia and daylilies, or bacteria in dahlia, these abnormal growths can mar the beauty of our garden. However, there’s good news! Lime Sulphur, with its powerful sterilising action, offers an effective solution for controlling galls caused by different organisms.
The Versatility of Lime Sulphur
Eutrema Lime Sulphur is widely used in commercial horticulture due to its sterilising properties. It effectively sterilises the surface of plants, including their root systems and foliage – leaves, fruits, and flowers.
Unlike other sterilising agents such as peroxide or hot water, diluted Lime Sulphur is non-toxic to actively growing plants. This makes Lime Sulphur a very useful option for dahlia enthusiasts who would otherwise have to discard infected tubers once they have sprouted.
Safety First: Handling Lime Sulphur
While Lime Sulphur proves useful in controlling galls, it is essential to handle it with care. This compound is hazardous to humans and should only be used with appropriate personal protective equipment, including a TYPE B filter mask. Remember that Lime Sulphur remains active for only a short period, breaking down into plant-available calcium and sulphur, so you do not have to worry about the long-term effects of it on garden users’ health (as you would with pesticides).
Application Methods for Different Galls
Fuchsia Gall Mite: Dilute 10mL of Lime Sulphur per litre of water and spray it on the infected foliage. A follow-up spray after 7 days will control newly hatched mites or those migrating from unsprayed areas. For even better results, apply Lime Sulphur with Eutrema Yucca Extract or Insecticidal Soap to ensure even coverage across the foliage.
Dahlia Gall / Leafy Gall: When the plants are in leaf and deformed, apply Lime Sulphur as a foliar spray (as described above) AND also as a root drench. For the root drench, dilute 50mL per litre of water and pour it over the soil where the plants are growing. For dormant tubers, dip them in a solution of 10mL Lime Sulphur per litre of water just before planting out.
Daylily Gall Midge and Aquilegia Gall Midge: To combat these pests, spray a dilute solution of Lime Sulphur (10mL per litre) onto developing flower buds in early May.
Bonus extra; because Lime Sulphur creates no toxic residues on plants, it is approved for use on organic crops!
Conclusion
Galls can be a frustrating challenge in any garden, but with the powerful aid of Lime Sulphur, their influence can be controlled effectively. Remember to prioritise safety and wear appropriate protective gear when handling Lime Sulphur. By following the recommended application methods for each type of gall, you can safeguard your plants’ health and maintain a flourishing and splendid garden all season long. Happy gardening!
To purchase Eutrema Lime Sulphur visit our online shop: https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/pesticides-organic/lime-sulphur/