Purple blotch
Septocyta ruborum
What is Purple blotch, (Septocyta ruborum)?
Purple blotch is a plant disease caused by a fungus called Septocyta ruborum. This fungus belongs to the Ascomycota phylum and primarily affects the stems of Rubus species, especially wild blackberries. It is also known as stem spot disease due to the formation of small dark green spots on the stems, which later grow to several centimeters in length. These spots turn purple with a reddish ring. Purple blotch mainly impacts blackberry cultivars such as 'Marion,' 'Evergreen,' 'Kotata,' and 'Waldo.'
How does Purple blotch, (Septocyta ruborum) occur?
During spring, the fungus produces spores on the affected mature canes of blackberry plants. These spores specifically target the young canes. They are dispersed by rain and often collect near the base of hair-like structures called trichomes before infecting the plant. The spores primarily enter the plant through tiny pores called stomata, which are present on the surface of leaves and stems. However, if only the outer layer of stems is scraped, the spores don't infect. But deep wounds make the plant more susceptible to infection.
Symptoms
1 - Plant Health
Septocyta ruborum can weaken plants, causing dieback. Lesions on stems disrupt nutrient and water transport, reducing vigor and productivity. It can lead to lower crop quality, reduced yield, and smaller or deformed fruits on infected canes.
2 - Soil Contamination
Fallen infected plant debris can accumulate on the ground. The build-up of fungal inoculum in the soil may increase the risk of future infections.
Solutions
1 - Cultural methods
• Grow less susceptible varieties like Boysenberry or Loganberry. • Train canes vertically to improve airflow and reduce disease severity. Additionally, Control weeds to prevent infection and ensure adequate spray coverage. • Remove old fruiting canes after harvest to minimize overwintering inoculum. • Optimize plant spacing and implement canopy management techniques that promote good air circulation, reducing humidity and disease spread. • Implement measures to manage primocanes (young canes) early in the season to reduce disease incidence.
2 - Chemical Control
1. After Harvest: • Use fixed coppers (Nu-Cop, Cuprofix) or Bordeaux 8-8-100. • Apply Bonide Captan 50 WP in home gardens. • Repeat spray in early October before heavy rains. 2. Budbreak in Early March: • Apply Rex Lime Sulfur Solution or fixed copper. • Use Liqui-Cop for home gardens. • Sulforix can be applied as a delayed dormant spray. 3. Spray Young Primocanes: • Apply Bonide Captan 50 WP or Captan 80 WDG. • Use fixed coppers (Nu-Cop, C-O-C-S) or Kocide. • Pristine can be used on harvest day. • Follow label instructions, reentry periods, and safety precautions when applying fungicides. Consulting local agricultural experts or extension services for specific recommendations is essential.
Susceptible Species
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.
