Pest & Disease Twig blights

Twig blights

Kabatina juniperi

What are Twig blights ( Diaporthe juniperivora and Kabatina juniperi)?

Juniper twig blight is a fungal disease that affects Juniperus spp. (juniper) plants. It is caused by two fungi called Diaporthe juniperivora and Kabatina juniperi. The disease is mainly found in western Oregon and parts of eastern Washington and nursery markets. It infects the current year's growth, causing tip dieback and foliar blight. Infected foliage turns red, brown, or ash-gray, with small lesions and black fruiting bodies. Severe cases can result in stunted growth and plant death

How do Twig blights ( Diaporthe juniperivora and Kabatina juniperi) occur?

Juniper twig blight is caused by fungal spores that can spread and infect juniper plants. The spores are produced by the fungi Diaporthe juniperivora and Kabatina juniperi. The disease occurs when the spores land on young juniper foliage during periods of high moisture and humidity, usually in the spring. The spores enter the plant through wounds, insect feeding, or mechanical damage. Once inside the plant, the fungi grow and cause damage to the current year's growth, resulting in tip dieback and foliar blight.

Symptoms

1 - Tree Health

• It causes significant damage, leading to dieback, loss of foliage, and potential death of branches or the entire tree. • The disease also negatively affects the visual appearance of affected trees, diminishing the aesthetic value of plants.

3 - Soil Health

Accumulation of organic matter from dead branches and foliage on the soil surface can occur, potentially altering soil conditions.

Solutions

1 - Plant Selection and Tree Health Maintenance

• Prune out and burn affected twigs and branches to remove infected plant material. • Avoid wounding the twigs, as wounds provide entry points for the fungus. • Avoid overhead irrigation or ensure that plants are not wet for extended periods, as moisture promotes fungal growth. • Practice proper spacing between plants to allow for good air circulation, reducing humidity and minimizing disease spread. • Choose and grow resistant cultivars when possible. • Select cuttings only from disease-free stock plants. • Follow good cultural practices, including balanced fertilization and proper plant care, to maintain plant health and resilience. • Monitor plants regularly for early signs of infection and take prompt action if symptoms are observed.

2 - Fungicide Application

• For treating Juniper twig blight, some commonly used fungicides include Cleary's 3336 EG (Group 1), CuPRO 5000 (Group M1), Heritage (Group 11), Kocide 3000 (Group M1), Mancozeb-based products (Group M3), Fore 80 WP, Protect DF, Mural (Group 7 + 11), Phyton 27 (Group M1), and Propiconazole-based products (Group 3). • Follow label instructions for proper application rates and timings. It's also recommended to consult with local agricultural extension services or professionals for guidance specific to your region and situation.

FAQ

Do shade growing plants need any Sunlight?

Shade growing plants do need sunlight, although they require less than other plants. They need some direct sunlight each morning to help them photosynthesize and grow properly. Also, indirect sunlight throughout the day helps them stay healthy. Shade growing plants will benefit from the sunshine, but if they get too much or too little, then they can suffer the consequences. It's important to pay attention to the needs of your plants so that you can provide them with the proper light for optimal growth.

How often should you water indoor plants?

Indoor plants should be watered when the soil feels dry to a depth of about two inches, usually about once a week. A helpful technique to determine your plants' watering needs is to feel the soil before and after watering to get a sense of how long it takes to dry out. An important note to remember is that some plants require less water than others, and it's best to research the specific needs of your individual plants. Likewise, if your home is very dry, you might need to water more often as the lack of moisture can stress the plants and lead to problems like brown leaves and wilted stems.

Can my monstera plant get root rot?

Yes, a plant can get root rot. Root rot is a fungal disease that can be caused by over-watering, poor soil drainage, or high humidity levels in the air. Signs of root rot include yellowing leaves, wilting and stunted growth, and damaged or browning root systems. Sometimes it is difficult to detect root rot until the plant is removed from the soil, as the problems are mainly below the soil surface. Treating root rot usually involves removing the affected parts of the plant and replanting the unaffected ones.

Can I put my Monstera outside in summer?

No, you should not put your Monstera outside in summer. Monstera plants need warm, humid air to thrive, and direct sunlight can scorch their leaves. Instead, put your Monstera in a bright, sunny spot with indirect light, making sure the sun never directly hits the leaves. During the summer, keep your Monstera's soil damp and mist it occasionally to keep the leaves hydrated. At nighttime, keep the temperature around 16 - 21°C (60 - 70°F). You can definitely take your Monstera outdoors for short periods of time, just make sure to bring it back in if it starts to get too hot.

What happens if my monstera plant gets too cold?

If your monstera plant gets too cold, it will become vulnerable to pests, disease, or other damage. Cold temperatures can damage the leaves of the plant, causing them to become spotted or limp. The roots of monstera plants may also suffer in cold temperatures, leading to root rot or other diseases. Belonging to the tropical family, monsteras are used to warm environments and do not do well in cold temperatures, so it is important to ensure your plant is kept in conditions that suit their needs.

Is it possible to grow a vegetable garden in a small space?

Yes, it is possible to grow a vegetable garden in a small space. Gardening in a small space can be as simple as growing a few containerized plants in pots and raised beds, or as elaborate as vertically stacking planters, hanging pouches, and hanging baskets on a wall, railing, or fence. Regardless of the size of the space you are working with, some simple techniques such as companion planting, organic fertilizers, and water conservation can help you get the most out of your small vegetable garden.

Is peppermint herb green good for digestion?

Peppermint herb is indeed beneficial for digestion. The flavonoids in the herb support digestion by reducing inflammation in the digestive track, aiding in digestion and relieving indigestion, heartburn, and even the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Additionally, peppermint is naturally rich in menthol, which helps to relax the muscles of the stomach, aiding in the digestion of food. Peppermint herb can be consumed in a variety of forms, such as teas, tinctures and capsules, as well as by adding the herb to food or directly to water or tea.

Should peppermint herb green be consumed daily?

No, peppermint herb green should not be consumed daily. This is because it contains high levels of menthol, which can be toxic if taken in large doses. Additionally, consuming large amounts of peppermint herb green could interfere with the absorption of essential minerals and vitamins, potentially causing vitamin deficiencies. For these reasons, it is best to consult with a doctor before incorporating peppermint herb green into your daily diet.