While you may think this fungus affects only roses, black spot plant disease doesn’t discriminate. With the right conditions, it will latch on to any plant with fleshy leaves and stems. Black spot fungus loves the wet, cool temperatures of spring.
The disease starts with tiny black spots on leaves. As time progresses, the spots develop a yellow ring and eventually take over the leaf until it dies.
Prevention tips
The first step to preventing black spot disease in your garden is to pay close attention and inspect your garden on a regular basis. The earlier you catch it, the brighter the future for any infected plants you might find.
Take preventive measures and keep your garden beautiful and lively. Spray an organic fungicide or neem oil early in the spring season before temperatures reach 60 degrees. For additional peace of mind, make sure your plants get plenty of suns and good air circulation. Avoid watering on cloudy days to cut down on excess moisture.
Black spot treatment options
If you notice an outbreak, dispose of or burn all affected leaves and stems immediately. When treated correctly, black spot fungus will rarely kill the entire host plant. Black spot fungus spores travel from leaf to leaf and plant to plant, both with the wind and thorough watering.
It’s important to treat the disease right from the start. Spray the affected area with fungicide or neem oil.