Leaf spot disease is not something to be trifled with. In this article we will explain to you how to recognize and properly treat the mostly fungal plant disease in hibiscus.
What to do about leaf spot on hibiscus?
If you notice symptoms of leaf spot on your hibiscus, you should carefully remove theaffected parts of the plant immediatelyDisinfect the secateurs before and after use. The cut branches must be disposed of in household waste, not in the compost.
How can leaf spot on hibiscus be identified?
If your hibiscus is suffering from leaf spot disease, you can tell byirregular, mostly dark leaf spotsThey are usually dark red-brownish to blackish spots. Yellowish spots with dark purple edges sometimes also appear. The leaf spots become larger over time. In addition, leaf spot is commonly associated withpremature leaf fall.
What are the causes of leaf spot on hibiscus?
Leaf spot is usually caused byFungal spores, rarely by bacteria or viruses. Various conditions can promote fungal infestation:
- excessively wet weather conditions with persistent leaf wetness
- unbalanced fertilization (e.g. with excess nitrogen and potassium deficiency)
- too shady location
- plant spacing too small
How can I prevent leaf spot on hibiscus?
To prevent leaf spot on hibiscus, you should pay particular attention to appropriate care.
- Water only the root area, never the leaves.
- Fertilize in a balanced manner or tend to be calibrated.
- Give the hibiscus a suitable location.
- Maintain the necessary planting distances so that all plants have enough space to dry well and absorb enough light.
In addition, it is recommended toalways remove fallen leaves immediately, as fungal spores like to nest in them and spread from there to the he althy leaves.
Tip
Other diseases of hibiscus
In addition to leaf spot, yellow spot and chlorosis are possible diseases that can affect hibiscus. Yellow spot disease is a viral disease and chlorosis is a deficiency symptom. Both are manifested by yellowish leaves, although the yellowing in chlorosis is usually more widespread.