Alternaria > Identify, Control & Disease Prevention Tips

Alternaria

These fungi are mostly found in soil or in rotten plants. The most prominent characteristic of these species is that they produce host-specific toxins and melanin. What makes them especially dangerous is that they cause about 20% and more of the spoiled harvest. And a lot of human illnesses also can be the result of this fungus. When it comes to plants, Alternaria definitely has some favorites (garden plants). Still, in general, this disease isn't very picky, and it can affect a wide range of plants, from citrus to ornamental!

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Signs of damage

Chlorosis and necrosis. Once fungus settles down, it starts germinating, reducing the nutrient amount and affecting the plant's coloration.
Rotten flower's buds and affected petals. The fungus spreads almost everywhere, including flowers.
Fruit damage. When it comes to fruit trees, this disease can be especially harmful to the farmers because Alternaria affects fruit interior.

How to prevent

The best way to avoid Alternaria is by buying seeds certified as "disease-free" or treating seeds with hot water, which also reduces the risk of it. Since water is a pleasant space for fungus, you need to control leaf wetness. It's better to rinse plants in the morning, so they dry quicker. But overhead irrigation during the formative period is not welcome. More space is also better for plants, and good air circulation is beneficial in many ways.

Heal

As you can guess, fungicides will be very helpful with this disease because it is caused by fungus. And Alternaria is highly sensitive to miconazole and amphotericin. But the most optimal treatment is a combination of medication and removing parts of the plant that were heavily affected.

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