One of the few diseases that occur on privet is leaf spot fungus. With an otherwise he althy hedge, you don't have to worry as much. If the infestation occurs very frequently, location and care errors may be responsible. How do you combat leaf spot fungus on privet?
How do you combat leaf spot fungus on privet?
To combat leaf spot fungus on privet, affected shoots should be cut off generously and disposed of with household waste. Fallen leaves must be picked up to prevent them from spreading again. Chemical sprays are usually ineffective and not recommended in private gardens.
Signs of leaf spot fungus infection
If the leaves of the privet turn yellow in autumn, there is usually a natural cause. There are also yellow species such as the Gold Privet, which always have yellow leaves.
If yellow leaves appear on a green variety in summer and spots appear on the upper sides, you must assume that you are infested with leaf spot fungus.
Causes of leaf spot fungus on privet
Various causes can be responsible. Most of the time, however, the spores of the fungus are already in the garden and are transferred to the privet.
Unfavorable location conditions and a climate that is too humid or dry can promote the spread of leaf spot fungus.
Fighting leaf spot fungus on privet
There's not much you can do if leaf spot fungus has attacked the privet. There are only a few sprays that are approved for use in private gardens, and they are usually not very effective.
If the infestation is not too severe, you do not have to fight the fungal infestation. The privet can handle this on its own. If the sight bothers you very much, cut off all affected shoots generously and dispose of them in household waste - not in the compost!
Pick up fallen leaves and do not leave them in the garden as the spores are in the leaves and can trigger a new infestation.
How to prevent leaf spot fungus on privet
- Choose resistant varieties
- don't keep it too wet or too dry
- fertilize occasionally but not too much
- Maintain planting distance
- Keep tools clean
The cleanliness of the garden tools is very important. Clean all cutting tools thoroughly before use to avoid transferring fungal spores from one plant to the next.
Tip
Another fungal disease that can occur on privet is powdery mildew. It is almost always powdery mildew, which occurs in very hot and dry summers. Downy mildew, on the other hand, prefers a humid climate.
