Plant Disease Control
Garden Diseases are caused by * Fungi *Bacteria *Viruses and *Protozoa.
Environmental Conditions:
Plant dieseases run rampant when the plant and disease causing pathogens combine with certain environmental conditions. If we can reduce or remove one of these factors then we can reduce the amount of disease.
For example, areas with high humidity have many more fungal problems than areas with little humidity.
Animal/Water Carriers:
Pathogens that cause disease can also be attached to an animal and/or be carried in waterways - causing them to spread uncontrollably. Keep an eye out for new pests/insects/diseases in your garden while also being aware of any new water passing through.
How to treat fungal infections
Before using fungicides:
- Remove any old mulch, infected plants and cuttings that may contain spores from previous crops
- Aim to plant your plants in areas that fungi will not like, i.e. plant Roses in full sun
- Avoid overhead watering, use a spray wand at the base of the plant instead
- Remove all the currently infected plant material
- Increase the air circulation around the plant, and improve drainage
N.B. Any contaminated materials like infected foliage and mulch that was close to infected plants should be taken off your premises by placing in green council bins. DO NOT put it in your compost.
#. Contact Fungicides
Spray with protective fungicides – these will inhibit the spores and toughen the plant tissue
Available in our shop: Triforine, Mancozeb and Lime Sulphur.
#. Systemic Fungicides
Sprinkle granules around the base of the plant so the chemicals can be diluted into the soil and taken up by the roots. This will inhibit the spores' growth and toughen the plant tissue. The affect will last for 2-3months and will not be affected by rain or extreme temperatures.
Available in our shop: Richgro Black Spot and Fungus Killa - N.B. this is a game changing new product that inhibits fungal disease before it gets established, while saving regluar spraying.