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Fruit Gardening

Blackberry Anthracnose: A Common Fungal Disease and How to Control It

by Gregory
written by Gregory 5 minutes read

Blackberry Anthracnose: A Common Fungal Disease

Blackberry anthracnose is a common fungal disease that affects blackberries and other brambles, such as dewberries, loganberries, and raspberries. It can cause poor fruit quality and production, and in severe infections, it can weaken or even kill canes.

Symptoms of Blackberry Anthracnose

The first signs of blackberry anthracnose are small purple spots on the shoots of new canes in the spring. These spots will increase in size, become oval-shaped, and eventually turn a gray or buff color. You may also find small spots with light gray centers and purple margins on the leaves. In heavy infections, the spots on the canes and stems can merge together, forming large cankers with cracks.

Causes of Blackberry Anthracnose

Blackberry anthracnose is caused by the fungus Elsinoe veneta. The fungus overwinters in diseased canes and releases spores during rainy periods in the spring and summer. The greatest risk of infection is between bud break and pre-harvest, as the fungus targets mainly new growth.

Treatment for Blackberry Anthracnose

The best way to control blackberry anthracnose is to use a combination of cultural practices and fungicides.

Cultural Practices:

  • Plant resistant varieties of blackberries.
  • Space plants properly and prune to improve air circulation.
  • Remove any wild brambles in the area, which can harbor the disease.
  • Remove weeds and prune back blackberry bushes to promote good air circulation and light penetration.
  • After harvesting blackberries, remove and destroy any canes that have been infected.

Fungicides:

  • Apply a delayed dormant spray before growth starts and while temperatures are still cold.
  • Use a lime, sulfur, copper hydroxide, or foliar fungicide.
  • The recommended type of fungicide may vary depending on your area, so check with your county extension office for the latest information.

Prevention of Blackberry Anthracnose

The best way to prevent blackberry anthracnose is to start with healthy plants and to follow good cultural practices.

  • Buy disease-free plants from a reputable nursery.
  • Plant blackberries in well-drained soil.
  • Water blackberries deeply and regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
  • Fertilize blackberries according to the soil test recommendations.
  • Mulch around blackberry plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  • Avoid overhead watering, which can spread the fungus.
  • Inspect blackberry plants regularly for signs of disease.

Additional Information

Life Cycle of the Anthracnose Fungus:

The anthracnose fungus overwinters in diseased canes. In the spring, the fungus produces spores that are spread by wind and rain. The spores infect new canes through wounds or natural openings. The fungus then grows inside the cane, causing the characteristic symptoms of anthracnose.

How to Identify Blackberry Anthracnose:

Blackberry anthracnose can be identified by the following symptoms:

  • Small purple spots on new canes in the spring
  • Oval-shaped, gray or buff spots on canes and stems
  • Small spots with light gray centers and purple margins on leaves
  • Cankers with cracks on canes and stems

Home Remedies for Blackberry Anthracnose:

There are a few home remedies that may help to control blackberry anthracnose, but they are not as effective as fungicides.

  • Baking soda: Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda in 1 gallon of water and spray on blackberry plants.
  • Apple cider vinegar: Mix 1 cup of apple cider vinegar in 1 gallon of water and spray on blackberry plants.
  • Garlic: Crush garlic cloves and mix them with water. Spray the mixture on blackberry plants.

Organic Treatment for Blackberry Anthracnose:

There are a few organic fungicides that can be used to control blackberry anthracnose.

  • Serenade: Serenade is a biofungicide that contains the bacterium Bacillus subtilis.
  • Actinovate: Actinovate is a biofungicide that contains the bacterium Streptomyces lydicus.
  • Mycostop: Mycostop is a biofungicide that contains the fungus Trichoderma harzianum.

When to Use a Delayed Dormant Spray:

A delayed dormant spray is applied before growth starts and while temperatures are still cold. This is the best time to apply a fungicide to control blackberry anthracnose because the fungus is most vulnerable at this stage.

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Tree Care

Phytophthora: A Common Tree Disease: Symptoms, Prevention, and Treatment

by Gregory
written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Phytophthora: A Common Tree Disease

Have you ever planted a young tree with love and care, only to watch it slowly decline and eventually die a few years later? If so, you may have been dealing with phytophthora, a common soil-borne pathogen that affects trees, shrubs, and even vegetables.

What is Phytophthora?

Phytophthora is a type of fungus-like organism that lives in the soil. It was once classified as a fungus, but scientists now know that it is more closely related to algae. There are many different species of phytophthora, but they all share a few common characteristics.

Phytophthora thrives in wet, poorly-drained soil. It can also spread through water, so it is often a problem in areas with heavy rainfall or flooding.

Symptoms of Phytophthora

Phytophthora can cause a variety of symptoms in trees, including:

  • Wilting
  • Yellowing leaves
  • Red or purple leaves
  • Stunting
  • Dieback
  • Root rot

The early signs of phytophthora can be difficult to detect, as they often resemble other plant problems, such as drought stress or nutrient deficiency. However, as the disease progresses, the symptoms become more severe and the tree may eventually die.

How to Prevent Phytophthora

The best way to prevent phytophthora is to plant trees in well-drained soil. You should also avoid overwatering your trees, as this can create the perfect environment for the fungus to thrive.

If you are planting trees in an area with poor drainage, you can improve the drainage by adding organic matter to the soil, such as compost or peat moss. You can also create raised beds or plant trees on mounds to help keep their roots out of standing water.

How to Treat Phytophthora

There is no cure for phytophthora, but there are a few things you can do to manage the disease and prevent it from spreading.

  • Remove infected trees: If a tree is severely infected with phytophthora, it is best to remove it to prevent the disease from spreading to other trees.
  • Prune infected branches: If only a few branches are infected, you can prune them off to help save the tree.
  • Improve drainage: If the soil in your garden is poorly drained, you can improve the drainage by adding organic matter or creating raised beds.
  • Apply fungicides: There are a few fungicides that can be used to treat phytophthora, but they are not always effective.

Other Tips for Preventing and Treating Phytophthora

  • Plant resistant trees: There are a few species of trees that are resistant to phytophthora, such as oak, maple, and birch.
  • Avoid planting trees in low-lying areas: Low-lying areas are more likely to have poor drainage, which can create a favorable environment for phytophthora.
  • Water trees deeply and infrequently: Watering trees deeply and infrequently encourages the development of deep roots, which are less likely to be affected by phytophthora.
  • Mulch around trees: Mulching around trees helps to retain moisture and improve drainage, which can help to prevent phytophthora.

Conclusion

Phytophthora is a common tree disease that can be difficult to diagnose and treat. However, by following the tips in this article, you can help to prevent and manage phytophthora in your garden.

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Plant Health and Disease

Photinia Bush Diseases: Identification, Prevention, and Effective Treatment

by Gregory
written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Photinia Bush Diseases: Identification, Prevention, and Treatment

Introduction

Photinia shrubs are popular for their attractive red-tipped new growth, but they can be susceptible to a common disease known as photinia leaf spot. This fungal disease can cause serious damage to photinia shrubs, leading to defoliation and even death if left untreated.

Identifying Photinia Leaf Spot

The main culprit behind photinia leaf spot is a fungus called Entomosporium mespili. This fungus thrives in cool, moist environments, and it attacks the vulnerable new growth of photinia shrubs. The first signs of photinia leaf spot are small, round, red spots on the surface of the leaves. As the disease progresses, these spots enlarge and turn into dark, purplish circles surrounding gray, dying tissue. The fungus can spread from new growth to older leaves, eventually covering the entire shrub with unsightly “sores.”

Life Cycle of Photinia Bush Diseases

The red-tipped photinia disease follows a definite pattern or cycle. The fungal spores spend the winter in fallen, infected leaves or in late-emerging new growth. These spores are released into the air in late winter or early spring, where they can land on nearby photinia shrubs. The spores spread through water splashing from one leaf to another, infecting the entire shrub.

Preventing Photinia Bush Diseases

Prevention is key when it comes to controlling photinia bush diseases. Here are some effective prevention measures:

  • Rake up fallen leaves: Remove fallen leaves, which can harbor fungal spores.
  • Remove infected leaves and branches: If your shrub is already infected, prune away all affected leaves and branches.
  • Cover the ground around shrubs: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of your photinia shrubs to prevent spores from reaching the leaves.
  • Avoid excessive pruning: Over-pruning can stimulate new growth, which is more susceptible to disease.
  • Plant resistant varieties: Consider planting photinia varieties that are less susceptible to leaf spot.

Treating Photinia Bush Diseases

If your photinia shrub does become infected with leaf spot, there are several treatment options available:

  • Chemical treatments: Fungicides containing chlorothalonil, propiconazole, or myclobutanil can be effective in treating photinia leaf spot.
  • Cultural practices: Improving air circulation and sunlight exposure around your photinia shrubs can help reduce the risk of disease.

Additional Tips for Managing Photinia Bush Diseases

  • Stagger new plantings: Avoid planting photinia shrubs too close together. This will increase airflow and reduce the spread of spores.
  • Maintain good garden hygiene: Keep your garden clean of fallen leaves and other debris to reduce the risk of disease.
  • Monitor your shrubs regularly: Inspect your photinia shrubs regularly for signs of disease, and take prompt action if necessary.

With proper care and maintenance, you can prevent and control photinia bush diseases and keep your shrubs healthy and vibrant.

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Plant Health

Southern Blight: A Common Garden Problem and How to Control It

by Donna
written by Donna 3 minutes read

Southern Blight: A Common Garden Problem and How to Control It

What is Southern Blight?

Southern blight is a common disease that affects plants in home gardens. It is caused by a soil-borne fungus called Sclerotium rolfsii. This fungus attacks a wide range of plants, including vegetables and ornamentals, at or below the soil line.

Symptoms of Southern Blight

Southern blight is most likely to occur in the summer months when the soil is warm and moist. Symptoms of the disease include:

  • Discolored lower leaves
  • Wilted foliage
  • Plant collapse
  • Death of the plant

Upon close inspection, you may find an abundance of white hyphae or mycelia around the lower stem and roots and in the surrounding soil.

How to Control Southern Blight

Controlling southern blight in the home garden can be challenging because the most effective fungicides are only available to commercial growers. However, home gardeners can implement several cultural practices to manage the disease:

Sanitation

  • Remove the soil from garden tools and the soles of shoes before moving from one part of the garden to another.
  • Quarantine new plants by growing them in a bed isolated from the rest of the garden until you are sure they are disease-free.
  • Remove and destroy diseased plants, along with the surrounding soil and any garden debris or mulch that has come in contact with them.
  • Avoid transplanting nearby plants to other parts of the garden.

Soil Solarization

Phytophthora: A Common Tree Disease

Have you ever planted a young tree with love and care, only to watch it slowly decline and eventually die a few years later? If so, you may have been dealing with phytophthora, a common soil-borne pathogen that affects trees, shrubs, and even vegetables.

What is Phytophthora?

Phytophthora is a type of fungus-like organism that lives in the soil. It was once classified as a fungus, but scientists now know that it is more closely related to algae. There are many different species of phytophthora, but they all share a few common characteristics.

Phytophthora thrives in wet, poorly-drained soil. It can also spread through water, so it is often a problem in areas with heavy rainfall or flooding.

Symptoms of Phytophthora

Phytophthora can cause a variety of symptoms in trees, including:

  • Wilting
  • Yellowing leaves
  • Red or purple leaves
  • Stunting
  • Dieback
  • Root rot

The early signs of phytophthora can be difficult to detect, as they often resemble other plant problems, such as drought stress or nutrient deficiency. However, as the disease progresses, the symptoms become more severe and the tree may eventually die.

How to Prevent Phytophthora

The best way to prevent phytophthora is to plant trees in well-drained soil. You should also avoid overwatering your trees, as this can create the perfect environment for the fungus to thrive.

If you are planting trees in an area with poor drainage, you can improve the drainage by adding organic matter to the soil, such as compost or peat moss. You can also create raised beds or plant trees on mounds to help keep their roots out of standing water.

How to Treat Phytophthora

There is no cure for phytophthora, but there are a few things you can do to manage the disease and prevent it from spreading.

  • Remove infected trees: If a tree is severely infected with phytophthora, it is best to remove it to prevent the disease from spreading to other trees.
  • Prune infected branches: If only a few branches are infected, you can prune them off to help save the tree.
  • Improve drainage: If the soil in your garden is poorly drained, you can improve the drainage by adding organic matter or creating raised beds.
  • Apply fungicides: There are a few fungicides that can be used to treat phytophthora, but they are not always effective.

Other Tips for Preventing and Treating Phytophthora

  • Plant resistant trees: There are a few species of trees that are resistant to phytophthora, such as oak, maple, and birch.
  • Avoid planting trees in low-lying areas: Low-lying areas are more likely to have poor drainage, which can create a favorable environment for phytophthora.
  • Water trees deeply and infrequently: Watering trees deeply and infrequently encourages the development of deep roots, which are less likely to be affected by phytophthora.
  • Mulch around trees: Mulching around trees helps to retain moisture and improve drainage, which can help to prevent phytophthora.

Conclusion

Phytophthora is a common tree disease that can be difficult to diagnose and treat. However, by following the tips in this article, you can help to prevent and manage phytophthora in your garden.

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Plant Health and Disease

Photinia Bush Diseases: Identification, Prevention, and Effective Treatment

by Gregory
written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Photinia Bush Diseases: Identification, Prevention, and Treatment

Introduction

Photinia shrubs are popular for their attractive red-tipped new growth, but they can be susceptible to a common disease known as photinia leaf spot. This fungal disease can cause serious damage to photinia shrubs, leading to defoliation and even death if left untreated.

Identifying Photinia Leaf Spot

The main culprit behind photinia leaf spot is a fungus called Entomosporium mespili. This fungus thrives in cool, moist environments, and it attacks the vulnerable new growth of photinia shrubs. The first signs of photinia leaf spot are small, round, red spots on the surface of the leaves. As the disease progresses, these spots enlarge and turn into dark, purplish circles surrounding gray, dying tissue. The fungus can spread from new growth to older leaves, eventually covering the entire shrub with unsightly “sores.”

Life Cycle of Photinia Bush Diseases

The red-tipped photinia disease follows a definite pattern or cycle. The fungal spores spend the winter in fallen, infected leaves or in late-emerging new growth. These spores are released into the air in late winter or early spring, where they can land on nearby photinia shrubs. The spores spread through water splashing from one leaf to another, infecting the entire shrub.

Preventing Photinia Bush Diseases

Prevention is key when it comes to controlling photinia bush diseases. Here are some effective prevention measures:

  • Rake up fallen leaves: Remove fallen leaves, which can harbor fungal spores.
  • Remove infected leaves and branches: If your shrub is already infected, prune away all affected leaves and branches.
  • Cover the ground around shrubs: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of your photinia shrubs to prevent spores from reaching the leaves.
  • Avoid excessive pruning: Over-pruning can stimulate new growth, which is more susceptible to disease.
  • Plant resistant varieties: Consider planting photinia varieties that are less susceptible to leaf spot.

Treating Photinia Bush Diseases

If your photinia shrub does become infected with leaf spot, there are several treatment options available:

  • Chemical treatments: Fungicides containing chlorothalonil, propiconazole, or myclobutanil can be effective in treating photinia leaf spot.
  • Cultural practices: Improving air circulation and sunlight exposure around your photinia shrubs can help reduce the risk of disease.

Additional Tips for Managing Photinia Bush Diseases

  • Stagger new plantings: Avoid planting photinia shrubs too close together. This will increase airflow and reduce the spread of spores.
  • Maintain good garden hygiene: Keep your garden clean of fallen leaves and other debris to reduce the risk of disease.
  • Monitor your shrubs regularly: Inspect your photinia shrubs regularly for signs of disease, and take prompt action if necessary.

With proper care and maintenance, you can prevent and control photinia bush diseases and keep your shrubs healthy and vibrant.

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Plant Health

Southern Blight: A Common Garden Problem and How to Control It

by Donna
written by Donna 3 minutes read

Southern Blight: A Common Garden Problem and How to Control It

What is Southern Blight?

Southern blight is a common disease that affects plants in home gardens. It is caused by a soil-borne fungus called Sclerotium rolfsii. This fungus attacks a wide range of plants, including vegetables and ornamentals, at or below the soil line.

Symptoms of Southern Blight

Southern blight is most likely to occur in the summer months when the soil is warm and moist. Symptoms of the disease include:

  • Discolored lower leaves
  • Wilted foliage
  • Plant collapse
  • Death of the plant

Upon close inspection, you may find an abundance of white hyphae or mycelia around the lower stem and roots and in the surrounding soil.

How to Control Southern Blight

Controlling southern blight in the home garden can be challenging because the most effective fungicides are only available to commercial growers. However, home gardeners can implement several cultural practices to manage the disease:

Sanitation

  • Remove the soil from garden tools and the soles of shoes before moving from one part of the garden to another.
  • Quarantine new plants by growing them in a bed isolated from the rest of the garden until you are sure they are disease-free.
  • Remove and destroy diseased plants, along with the surrounding soil and any garden debris or mulch that has come in contact with them.
  • Avoid transplanting nearby plants to other parts of the garden.

Soil Solarization

Phytophthora: A Common Tree Disease

Have you ever planted a young tree with love and care, only to watch it slowly decline and eventually die a few years later? If so, you may have been dealing with phytophthora, a common soil-borne pathogen that affects trees, shrubs, and even vegetables.

What is Phytophthora?

Phytophthora is a type of fungus-like organism that lives in the soil. It was once classified as a fungus, but scientists now know that it is more closely related to algae. There are many different species of phytophthora, but they all share a few common characteristics.

Phytophthora thrives in wet, poorly-drained soil. It can also spread through water, so it is often a problem in areas with heavy rainfall or flooding.

Symptoms of Phytophthora

Phytophthora can cause a variety of symptoms in trees, including:

  • Wilting
  • Yellowing leaves
  • Red or purple leaves
  • Stunting
  • Dieback
  • Root rot

The early signs of phytophthora can be difficult to detect, as they often resemble other plant problems, such as drought stress or nutrient deficiency. However, as the disease progresses, the symptoms become more severe and the tree may eventually die.

How to Prevent Phytophthora

The best way to prevent phytophthora is to plant trees in well-drained soil. You should also avoid overwatering your trees, as this can create the perfect environment for the fungus to thrive.

If you are planting trees in an area with poor drainage, you can improve the drainage by adding organic matter to the soil, such as compost or peat moss. You can also create raised beds or plant trees on mounds to help keep their roots out of standing water.

How to Treat Phytophthora

There is no cure for phytophthora, but there are a few things you can do to manage the disease and prevent it from spreading.

  • Remove infected trees: If a tree is severely infected with phytophthora, it is best to remove it to prevent the disease from spreading to other trees.
  • Prune infected branches: If only a few branches are infected, you can prune them off to help save the tree.
  • Improve drainage: If the soil in your garden is poorly drained, you can improve the drainage by adding organic matter or creating raised beds.
  • Apply fungicides: There are a few fungicides that can be used to treat phytophthora, but they are not always effective.

Other Tips for Preventing and Treating Phytophthora

  • Plant resistant trees: There are a few species of trees that are resistant to phytophthora, such as oak, maple, and birch.
  • Avoid planting trees in low-lying areas: Low-lying areas are more likely to have poor drainage, which can create a favorable environment for phytophthora.
  • Water trees deeply and infrequently: Watering trees deeply and infrequently encourages the development of deep roots, which are less likely to be affected by phytophthora.
  • Mulch around trees: Mulching around trees helps to retain moisture and improve drainage, which can help to prevent phytophthora.

Conclusion

Phytophthora is a common tree disease that can be difficult to diagnose and treat. However, by following the tips in this article, you can help to prevent and manage phytophthora in your garden.

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Plant Health and Disease

Photinia Bush Diseases: Identification, Prevention, and Effective Treatment

by Gregory
written by Gregory 3 minutes read

Photinia Bush Diseases: Identification, Prevention, and Treatment

Introduction

Photinia shrubs are popular for their attractive red-tipped new growth, but they can be susceptible to a common disease known as photinia leaf spot. This fungal disease can cause serious damage to photinia shrubs, leading to defoliation and even death if left untreated.

Identifying Photinia Leaf Spot

The main culprit behind photinia leaf spot is a fungus called Entomosporium mespili. This fungus thrives in cool, moist environments, and it attacks the vulnerable new growth of photinia shrubs. The first signs of photinia leaf spot are small, round, red spots on the surface of the leaves. As the disease progresses, these spots enlarge and turn into dark, purplish circles surrounding gray, dying tissue. The fungus can spread from new growth to older leaves, eventually covering the entire shrub with unsightly “sores.”

Life Cycle of Photinia Bush Diseases

The red-tipped photinia disease follows a definite pattern or cycle. The fungal spores spend the winter in fallen, infected leaves or in late-emerging new growth. These spores are released into the air in late winter or early spring, where they can land on nearby photinia shrubs. The spores spread through water splashing from one leaf to another, infecting the entire shrub.

Preventing Photinia Bush Diseases

Prevention is key when it comes to controlling photinia bush diseases. Here are some effective prevention measures:

  • Rake up fallen leaves: Remove fallen leaves, which can harbor fungal spores.
  • Remove infected leaves and branches: If your shrub is already infected, prune away all affected leaves and branches.
  • Cover the ground around shrubs: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of your photinia shrubs to prevent spores from reaching the leaves.
  • Avoid excessive pruning: Over-pruning can stimulate new growth, which is more susceptible to disease.
  • Plant resistant varieties: Consider planting photinia varieties that are less susceptible to leaf spot.

Treating Photinia Bush Diseases

If your photinia shrub does become infected with leaf spot, there are several treatment options available:

  • Chemical treatments: Fungicides containing chlorothalonil, propiconazole, or myclobutanil can be effective in treating photinia leaf spot.
  • Cultural practices: Improving air circulation and sunlight exposure around your photinia shrubs can help reduce the risk of disease.

Additional Tips for Managing Photinia Bush Diseases

  • Stagger new plantings: Avoid planting photinia shrubs too close together. This will increase airflow and reduce the spread of spores.
  • Maintain good garden hygiene: Keep your garden clean of fallen leaves and other debris to reduce the risk of disease.
  • Monitor your shrubs regularly: Inspect your photinia shrubs regularly for signs of disease, and take prompt action if necessary.

With proper care and maintenance, you can prevent and control photinia bush diseases and keep your shrubs healthy and vibrant.

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Plant Health

Southern Blight: A Common Garden Problem and How to Control It

by Donna
written by Donna 3 minutes read

Southern Blight: A Common Garden Problem and How to Control It

What is Southern Blight?

Southern blight is a common disease that affects plants in home gardens. It is caused by a soil-borne fungus called Sclerotium rolfsii. This fungus attacks a wide range of plants, including vegetables and ornamentals, at or below the soil line.

Symptoms of Southern Blight

Southern blight is most likely to occur in the summer months when the soil is warm and moist. Symptoms of the disease include:

  • Discolored lower leaves
  • Wilted foliage
  • Plant collapse
  • Death of the plant

Upon close inspection, you may find an abundance of white hyphae or mycelia around the lower stem and roots and in the surrounding soil.

How to Control Southern Blight

Controlling southern blight in the home garden can be challenging because the most effective fungicides are only available to commercial growers. However, home gardeners can implement several cultural practices to manage the disease:

Sanitation

  • Remove the soil from garden tools and the soles of shoes before moving from one part of the garden to another.
  • Quarantine new plants by growing them in a bed isolated from the rest of the garden until you are sure they are disease-free.
  • Remove and destroy diseased plants, along with the surrounding soil and any garden debris or mulch that has come in contact with them.
  • Avoid transplanting nearby plants to other parts of the garden.

Soil Solarization

  • Soil solarization is an effective method of killing the fungus in the soil.
  • Cover the soil with a clear plastic tarp and leave it in place while the heat builds up under it.
  • The top two inches (5 cm.) of soil must reach a temperature of at least 122 degrees F. (50 C.) to kill the fungus.

Other Control Methods

  • If all else fails, consider calling in a landscape professional to treat your garden soil with the appropriate fungicides specified for southern blight treatment.
  • Some organic methods for managing southern blight include:
    • Applying compost or manure to the soil to improve its health and fertility
    • Using disease-resistant plant varieties
    • Practicing crop rotation to prevent the build-up of the fungus in the soil

Prevention is Key

Preventing southern blight is the best way to protect your plants. Follow these tips:

  • Choose disease-resistant plant varieties.
  • Practice crop rotation to prevent the build-up of the fungus in the soil.
  • Water plants at the base to avoid wetting the foliage.
  • Keep the garden clean and free of plant debris.
  • Remove and destroy any infected plants immediately.

Conclusion

Southern blight can be a serious problem for home gardeners, but it can be managed with proper care and attention. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can help prevent and control southern blight in your garden and keep your plants healthy and thriving.

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an clheader-staor-italic author vcard">by Donna

by Gregory

  • Discolored lower leaves
  • Wilted foliage
  • Plant collapse
  • Death of the plant

    • Upon close inspection, you may find an abundance of white hyphae or mycelia around the lower stem and roots and in the surrounding soil.How to Control Southern Blight

    Controlling southern blight in the home garden can be challenging because the most effective fungicides are only available to commercial growers. However, home gardeners can implement several cultural practices to manage the disease:

    Sanitation

    Plant Health

    by Donna