Alternaria blight
Alternaria spp.
Also Known As - Leaf spot diseasesWhat is Alternaria blight (Alternaria spp)?
Alternaria leaf spot, also called Alternaria blight, is caused by several closely related species of Alternaria fungi, with different forms of disease targeting specific plants or even entire plant families. Brassica vegetables such as cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts can be affected by multiple forms of Alternaria leaf spot. Alternaria. It causes small water-soaked lesions on leaves, stems, and fruits. These lesions initially appear dark brown or black with concentric rings, enlarging into necrotic areas. Alternaria spp. can also cause blight symptoms, including rapid wilting, browning, and sunken areas covered in dark spores.
How does Alternaria blight (Alternaria spp) occur?
Alternaria blight is caused by spores produced by the Alternaria fungi present in infected crop debris or soil. These spores are disseminated by wind, water, insects, or human activities. When conditions are favorable, the spores germinate and infect plants through natural openings or wounds. Disease development is promoted by extended leaf wetness and moderate to warm temperatures. The fungi can survive in debris or soil for up to two years, allowing the disease cycle to repeat.
Symptoms
1 - Plant Damage
1. Alternaria blight causes leaf spots, blight symptoms, and necrotic areas on plants, leading to defoliation, reduced vigor, and yield losses. 2. Reduced Crop Quality: Infected fruits and vegetables can develop blemishes, discoloration, and decay, reducing their quality and marketability.
3 - Ecological Impacts
1. Alternaria fungi in crop debris or soil can persist, contaminating fields and acting as a source of future infections. 2. Severe infections can negatively affect susceptible plant species, impacting biodiversity and ecosystem balance.
Solutions
1 - Cultural Practices
1. Buy high-quality seeds from trusted sources. Save seeds only from plants that are disease-free and in good health. 2. Consider heat-treating your seeds to reduce the risk of disease. Clean and sanitize your seed-starting trays every year. 3. Remove or bury any plant residues in your garden to prevent the spread of diseases. 4. Wait at least three years before planting Brassica plants in the same location again. 5. If you've had issues with diseases, avoid using cover crops from the Brassica family, like tillage radish. 6. Provide enough space between plants to promote airflow. Ideally, broccoli plants should be spaced 10-18 inches apart in rows 18-36 inches apart. 7. Keep an eye out for weeds in the Brassica family, such as shepherd's purse, black mustard, and field mustard. Remove them promptly to prevent them from hosting diseases like black rot.
3 - Chemical Control
Fungicides available for Alternaria blight management include AZOXYSTROBIN (Quadris), CHLOROTHALONIL (Bravo Weather Stik), IPRODIONE (Rovral 4F), PYRACLOSTROBIN (Cabrio EG), and TRIFLOXYSTROBIN (Flint) and more. Follow local regulations, label instructions, and integrated pest management practices when using fungicides.
Susceptible Species
Forest Pansy Redbud
Philippine violet
bush violet
marigold
marsh marigold
Persian violet
carnation
carnation
carnation
carnation
carnation
carnation
carnation
carnation
carnation
carnation
border carnation
carnation
carnation
carnation
carnation
carnation
carnation
flame violet
white dog's-tooth violet
Persian violet
Chinese violet cress
violet wood sorrel
African violet
violet willow
creeping zinnia
African marigold
French marigold
French marigold
sweet white violet
violet
violet
Canada violet
violet
horned violet
horned violet
fanleaf violet
violet
violet
violet
violet
violet
Labrador violet
violet
bird's foot violet
larkspur violet
smooth yellow violet
violet
violet
eastern round-leaved violet
common blue violet
striped cream violet
pansy
creeping zinnia
creeping zinnia
zinnia
zinnia
zinnia
Early Blue Violet
African marigold
French marigold
pansy
Nodding Beggartick
Eaton's Beggarticks
Two Flower Marsh Marigold
Floating Marsh Marigold
Violet-flowered Angelonia
Chinese Violet
Philippine Violet
White Philippine violet
Striped Philippine violet
Hophead Philippine Violet
Bush Violet
Small Bush Violet
Apache Beggarticks
Pot Marigold
Marsh Marigold
Violet Trumpet Vine
Persian Violet
Vietnamese Violet
Flame Violet
Flame Violet
Persian Violet
Violet Tubeflowers
Violet Phalaenopsis
Violet Ruellia
African violet
Violet Tree
Crape Jasmine
Lemon Marigold
Mexican Tarragon
Marigold
Sunflower Tree
Zinnia
Garden Pinks & Carnations
Marigolds
Pansy
Zinnia
Hybrid Zinnia
Sweet Violet
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.
