Last week I spoke about the heavy rainfall. With rain comes fungus and pests. It is essential that these diseases are kept under control. Both farmers and home growers need to be alert as both can suffer serious losses.
Plants can become ill just like human beings. It is our duty to care for them. Fungus can cause serious losses and damage 
to plants and crops if left untreated. It can be found on plants, trees, in soil and other vegetation. Here are some of the fungus/ diseases to look out for:-
Black spots – spots found on leaves and which are prevalent on rose plants
Botrytis – is prevalent in wet conditions. Look out for large blotches of wet rot (grey mould) on leaves or stems. Plant will quickly rot and die.
Damping off – mainly affects young seedlings. Look out for black discolouration at the base of the stem of the seedling which is likely to topple over and die.
Mildew – is a white powdery deposit on the leaves and stems of flowers; if left unchecked it will destroy the plant.
Sooty mould – is a black fungus which is deposited by insects, ie aphids, scales and mealy bugs.
Fungicide can be used to effectively control these diseases along with good environmental conditions. When you purchase a fungicide with which to spray your plants make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Recommended fungicides to use are:- Coback/Kocide, Carbendazim or Banrot. With the right treatment fungus can be cured. Sometimes biological controls can be used too.
Until next week, happy gardening!
