Fungi are tiny organisms that live in the soil. Plants can contract fungal diseases from water, air and soil, and sometimes via insects and viruses.
Last week, we received many calls and visits from home gardeners and small farmers who complained about what the heavy rainfall is doing to their plants and crops. The findings were not what they wanted to hear. Fungus! Fungus! Fungus!
With the heavy rainfall comes fungus and pests. Like people, plants can become ill. It is our duty to care for them. Fungus can cause serious damage and losses to plants and crops if left untreated. It is essential that these diseases are kept under control.
Check beneath the leaves and or cracks on the stem to see the fungus.
Some common symptoms include discoloration, poor growth, poor flowering, and wilting.
Here are some common fungi to look out for:
- Root Rot – This often does not manifest itself until the plant is severely compromised with mildew and other leaf and stem diseases.
- Mildew – This is a white powdery deposit on the leaves and stems of plants, which, if left unchecked, will destroy the plant.
- Black Spot – This manifests in spots found on leaves and is prevalent on Rose plants.
- Botrytis – This is prevalent in wet conditions. Look out for large blotches of wet rot (grey mould) on leaves or stems. Plant will quickly die.
- Sooty mould – This is a black fungus which is deposited by insects, such as aphids, scales and mealy bugs.
You can control fungus with a fungicide, which can be used effectively to control these diseases along with good environmental conditions. Make sure that you follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Usually you need a spray bottle, water and the fungicide to spray the leaves. You can also use biological controls.
Until next week, Happy Gardening.
