The Problem
- Rust is caused by several species of fungal diseases.
- They affect a wide variety of crops including asparagus, beans, corn, onion and spinach.
- Affected plants experience slower growth and become stunted.
- In severe cases they will eventually die.
- Plants infected with rust are unsightly and generally unfit for human consumption.
Identification
- Rust usually starts out as yellow or whitish spots on the top sides of the leaves.
- The distinctive bright reddish or yellowish spores that give the plant its name appear later, as pustules on the undersides of the leaves.
Controls
- As with all fungi, rust is spread by wind borne spores and can travel long distances.
- Remove infected leaves and crop debris to minimize local sources of infection.
- As much as practical, avoid spreading the microscopic spores while removing infected plant material.
- Move it as little and as slowly as practical.
- Avoid getting foliage wet, and make sure air circulation is good.
- To minimize the effects of the disease keep the plants well fed and watered.
- Avoid giving plants too much nitrogen
Do Not Compost Diseased Plant Material!