As I said last week, with rain comes fungus. With the constant rainfall that we are experiencing, plants are not being allowed to dry off properly.
There are many different types of fungi that live in the soil and on the leaves, stems and trunks of plants and trees. You need to look carefully at your plants during this rainy season; you can end up losing plants if you do not monitor the situation.
Here are some signs to look for:
- Leaves turning yellow and falling off
- Black spots on leaves
- Powdery mildew
- Black sooty mould
- Root rot which can cause plants to collapse and die
If you notice any of the above on your plant/s, please try and contain the affected plant/s to one area and get immediate help and treatment. Remember if you are taking sample leaves of the affected plant/s to a chemical shop or a plant shop, please place the leaves in a transparent plastic bag and tie or seal the top of the bag to stop the fungus from spreading.
Once the fungus has been identified please start treatment immediately twice per week for the first two to three weeks and as it starts to clear up one time per week then once every two weeks.
I have been hearing of people who are treating their affected plants once every two weeks and in some cases once per month and expecting the fungus to clear up just like that.
If you care for your plants you have to help them if you want them to survive. If possible try moving your plants to a drier area like under a shed area where they would be able to dry off. Check the drainage holes of plant pots and clear them so that the excess water can drain off.
Until next week stay dry and Happy Gardening.
