Ivy is generally a hardy plant that rarely suffers from diseases. In an unfavorable location, however, fungal diseases can also occur in the garden, which not only look ugly, but also weaken the ivy. What to do if you have fungus.
Plant parts affected by fungi should be removed
Recognize fungal infestation on the ivy
Two fungal diseases bother ivy: burn spot disease and ivy canker. Both are characterized by a certain type of damage.
You can recognize the focal spot disease (Colletotrichum trichellum) by the gray and brown spots that appear on the leaves. In addition, small bumps form. The leaves usually don't fall off.
In the case of ivy canker (Xanthomonas campestris pv. hederae), the leaves initially develop small spots. They become black and larger and eventually have a reddish-brown edge. The spots dry up and fall off.
Control of fungi on ivy
- Cut off affected plant parts
- Use fungicide if infestation is severe
- pick up fallen leaves
- Thin out ivy
- Prune back ivy if necessary
- Do not dispose of leaves in the garden
Carefully collect any fallen leaves. Dispose of them with the trimmings via the green waste disposal or, even better, put them in the normal household waste. Do not leave the ivy in the garden for a long time.
In the case of a very strong fungal infestation, you should consider tearing out the ivy completely. In addition, there are effective fungicides on the market that you can use as instructed.
prevent fungal infestation
You can prevent fungal infestation by caring for the ivy properly. If possible, do not water the climbing plant from above. The best time to water is morning to noon. Then the leaves have enough time during the day to dry properly.
Thin out the ivy regularly. This allows air to reach the leaves so they don't get too damp.
Always use previously cleaned garden tools when cutting and tending ivy. The fungal spores are transmitted through unclean cutting. Then clean the devices thoroughly so that you do not infect other plants.
tips
In the house, fungal infestation on the ivy occurs rather rarely. Pest infestation is more common here, especially in winter. Make sure there is sufficient humidity in the room.