Fungi are decomposers and perform important tasks in the ecosystem. If a plant is infested by a species, this indicates weakened plant health. Suboptimal site conditions and faulty maintenance measures are the causes of this imbalance.
Powdery mildew is a fair-weather fungus, while downy mildew is a bad-weather fungus
fungal infestation in the garden
Many fungal species have not specialized in any host and are found on all plants. But there are also specific diseases in fruit trees, ornamental shrubs or herbaceous vegetable plants.
Common types:
- powdery mildew: Mealy grass that spreads on the leaves in fine weather
- Wrong mildew: whitish spots that cover the foliage in damp and cool weather
- Late blight and late blight: affects crops with a humid microclimate in the stand
- gray mold: weakened plants show greyish mold lawns and rotten spots
- wilted mushrooms: penetrate roots and prevent water and nutrient supply
- rust pile: cause yellowish to rust-brown spots on the underside of the leaves
- leaf spot pathogen: cause red, white, yellow, brown or black discoloration
plant manure
You can find agents to combat fungi in nature, because certain plants develop plant substances that are effective against fungi. The active ingredients get into the extract through broths, teas and manure.
rhubarb
The perennial is rich in oxalic acid, which not only eliminates fungi, but also insect pests such as leek moths, black bean lice, spider mites or caterpillars. 150 grams of leaves are boiled in one liter of water for 30 minutes. A watery brew (ratio 1:5) is suitable for spraying.
fern
Fern has effective substances against rust fungi and repels snails and aphids. A kilogram of fern ferments in ten liters of water for a few days. The liquid manure is diluted 1:10 and sprayed or poured. For a broth, soak ten pounds of herb in a large pot of tap water for 24 hours. Then boil the broth for 30 minutes. Diluted 1:5, this liquid is also suitable for spraying and pouring.
tansy
This plant is rich in the toxic plant substance thujone, which not only counteracts fungal infestation. Beneficial insects are additionally damaged, so you should use the tea with caution. 30 grams of flowers and one liter of drinking water are enough. Let the liquid steep for half an hour and spray the affected parts of the plant.
The right care
Fungal spores persist in the soil and germinate when conditions are optimal. To worsen the survival base, you should cover the substrate around the plants with mulch material, or plant ground cover. This will prevent the spores from becoming airborne again and infecting parts of the plant.
Mushrooms like predominantly humid conditions, so watering in the evening hours is not recommended. Watering in the morning allows the soil surface and leaves to dry out during the day. Plant-friendly fertilization is an important preventive measure, because nutrients strengthen plant health and make plants more robust.