Gold privet is characterized by its high robustness. So we can enjoy its golden-green leaves, the fragrant flowers and, in autumn, the small berries for years to come. But an existence without any illnesses would be too good to be true.
What diseases can occur in golden privet?
Golden privet diseases can include browning leaves due to improper care, powdery mildew, leaf spot, and wilt fungus. Countermeasures include cutting off infected parts, proper fertilization and soil replacement in the root area in the event of wilt fungus infestation.
Brown leaves
Brown leaves are often interpreted as a symptom of disease. But a closer look is necessary here. If the new growth has a brownish color in spring, a bright location is most likely responsible. The leaves first have to get used to the sun.
If brown leaves appear at other times, the care is usually incorrect. Extensive fertilization in particular can cause the leaves to turn brown. Another possible cause is a long, extremely dry or wet period.
Powdery mildew
In summer, golden privet can occasionally suffer from powdery mildew. A mealy-white coating becomes visible on the leaves. Although the disease is so visible, spraying privet is usually not necessary.
Leaf spot disease
Numerous brown to black dots on the leaves indicate an infestation with leaf spot fungus. Humid summers promote the outbreak and spread of the disease. Leaf loss may occur. Take action as soon as the disease is discovered to prevent it from progressing and affecting more parts of the golden privet.
- cut off all affected parts
- Clean and disinfect scissors beforehand
- Do not compost what is cut off, but dispose of it as residual waste
- If the infestation is severe or stubborn, inject a preparation containing copper (€6.00 on Amazon)
Tip
Make sure not to fertilize the golden privet with too much nitrogen. This prevents the plant tissue from becoming spongy, which would promote the spread of the fungus.
Wilting Mushroom
The wilt fungus, technically called verticillium, rages in the soil in the root area of the golden privet. His presence there initially goes unnoticed. However, the damaged roots will soon no longer be able to adequately supply the above-ground parts of the plant.
The leaves curl up, show color changes, dry up and fall off. Entire shoots can also die. If the disease is not contained, further growth will be very slow and the golden privet will have sparse foliage.
The fungus cannot be controlled chemically. Replacing soil in the root area can make sense. Injuries to the shallow roots must also be avoided so that the fungus does not have any further entry points.
