The camellia, which originates from Japanese mountain forests, delights us with colourful, rose-like flowers. But the plant, which is mostly cultivated as a houseplant in this country, can also cause us concern. It is particularly susceptible to leaf spot disease, which disfigures camellia leaves.

If the disease is discovered in time, it can be cured more easily

Mottled leaves as a symptom of disease

A healthy camellia has countless small, glossy green leaves. If their appearance differs from this, then this houseplant is diseased. Leaf spot disease could be a possible cause of altered leaves.

  • usually many leaves are affected
  • they show yellow and brown spots
  • the spots are of different sizes

Fungal pathogens damage the leaves

Leaf spot disease is caused by fungal pathogens that like the living conditions on the affected camellia. This is usually a humid and warm environment. Another inviting circumstance is a plant weakened by improper care.

Minimize risk of spread

If the camellia is a pot-cultivated specimen, isolate it from other plants. If you give the camellia a new location temporarily or move the healthy plants further away, then the fungus cannot migrate any further.

Cut diseased parts

Immediately remove all camellia leaves that bear even the slightest signs of this disease. Make sure you are hygienically clean so that the fungal spores are not accidentally carried on.

  • Disinfect scissors with alcohol
  • Wear gloves or clean hands thoroughly
  • Dispose of what is cut off

Treat with pesticides

At an early stage of disease, camellia can be treated with a broad spectrum fungicide. This should always be done outdoors, even with indoor plants. However, success is not guaranteed, because the mushrooms are persistent.

If the camellia is already clearly marked by leaf spot disease, it is better to dispose of it completely, including the soil and pot, before the disease spreads to other plants. Rhododendrons and hydrangeas, for example, are also susceptible.

Recognize maintenance errors

A weakened camellia is the result of poor care. These must be recognized and eliminated so that the plant can heal.

  • don't keep it too wet
  • only pour over the roots, do not wet the leaves
  • fertilize as needed
  • do not choose too dense planting
  • occasionally thin out
  • cultivate in a bright but shady spot

Category:

Vegetable garden