Plants are living organisms, and like any living organism, they are susceptible to disease. From fungal diseases to bacterial infections, there are many different diseases that plants can fall victim to. Even the most tightly run hydroponics garden can fall prey to root rot and powdery mildew. However, indoor gardens grown in a tent are less susceptible than gardens using soil. As long as the water is clean and air is circulated and controlled for humidity, the chances are much lower than soil-based gardens.
The common diseases found in indoor gardens can be narrowed down into five categories: fungus, bacteria, viruses, water molds, and nematodes.
The most important thing the gardener can do is to make sure that preventative measures are being taken. Make sure that plants have access to enough clean water and (circulating) air, with the right amount of humidity. You want your plants to be healthy enough to fight diseases on its own before you have to take additional measures to protect it. Prevention is key, but the next important step is keeping a close eye on your plants for any signs of wilting and drying, even though you are providing adequate amounts of water and nutrients. These may be signs that the plant is starting to fall prey to disease.
The common diseases found in indoor gardens can be consolidated into five categories: fungus, bacteria, viruses, water molds, and nematodes. Stemming from these, there are ten diseases that the indoor gardener needs to be aware of: powdery mildew, root rot, early blight, black mold, anthracnose, damping off, botrytis, rust, club root, crown and stem rot. If you suspect that any of these are affecting the health of your plants, you can start with a solution of water, baking soda, lemon juice and a tiny bit of dish detergent. Spray these on your plants, and see if it stops the fungus or bacteria from spreading. If this does not ameliorate the situation, you may need to treat the plants for the specific disease, and with harsher chemicals.
If you are growing an organic garden, you may want to start with organic products. Some special organic products can also be used in many hydroponics applications. There are also naturally derived pest and disease control treatments available, such as Neem Oil. This oil is from the fruits and seeds of the neem evergreen tree, and it is a great pesticide. It isn’t harmful to mammals. So, you can feel confident when handling, though all chemicals should be handled with care.
When it comes to health, whether it’s a human being’s well-being or those of the plants in your grow tent, there are always natural steps to its deterrence and avoidance: prevention and maintenance. If, however, you find that your vegetation has grown victim to plant disease, take the least caustic ways to eradication. Start with natural products, and move towards harsh chemicals if the disease is not responding.