Although the euonymus is considered robust, it is occasionally colonized by various fungal spores. They settle on the leaves and cause them to wither and die. With suitable means and the right care, you can prevent an infection.
Powdery mildew visits the spindle tree particularly often
powdery mildew
As a fair-weather fungus, powdery mildew spreads in warm and dry summer conditions. When the euonymus is infested, a white coating appears on the top of the leaf. It has a floury consistency and can be easily wiped off. As the infestation spreads, the plaque takes on a brownish tinge. The leaves dry up from the edge inwards and slowly die off.
Since the fungus tends to hibernate, it should be combated thoroughly. Agents containing silicic acid are suitable for this. As a preventive measure, we recommend several sprayings with field horsetail or nettle brew. If the leaves are affected, you should spray a solution of milk and water on the affected leaves every other day. Severely affected leaves are removed.
Wrong mildew
This fungus is considered a bad weather fungus because it needs moist and cool conditions to grow. Downy mildew spores settle on the underside of leaves. The fine mushroom mycelium penetrates the leaves. Light discolorations appear on the upper side of the leaf. The leaves will dry up over time if the fungus is not controlled.
Unlike powdery mildew, this fungus does not overwinter on the bushes, but on the fallen leaves. The following spring the spores can again infect the freshly sprouted leaves. A broth with field horsetail strengthens the plant and prevents infestation. When watering, be careful not to get the leaves wet. Agents containing silicic acid have a fungicidal effect.
rust
Yellow to orange spots on the leaves indicate an infestation by the rust fungus Melampsora evonymi-caprearum. The fungal network runs through the leaves, which can die off if the infestation is severe. Rust fungi rob the plants of nutrients. Spindle trees usually survive an infestation without suffering much damage.
Prevent rust fungus:
- Check plants regularly during wet weather
- Remove affected leaves in the early stages
- only water at the base of the trunk
- pay attention to a balanced nutrient supply