Agaves are popular plants for balconies and terraces. The reasons for this are that they are considered easy to care for and require little water. However, if care is made incorrectly, illnesses can quickly arise that require urgent treatment.
What to do if there are brown spots on agaves?
Brown spots on agaves are usually caused by fungal diseases caused by too much moisture. To treat the plant, cut off affected parts, replace the soil and wash the agave with garlic broth. If necessary, sulfur powder can also be used.
Where do brown spots on agave come from?
The cause of brown spots on agaves is usually fungal diseases. These are caused by too much moisture. This causes the roots to rot and quickly become infected with fungi from the soil. The agave anthracnose fungus most often occurs when plants are left outside unprotected from rain. A severe fungal infection can spread to the entire plant. That's why you should check your agave regularly and take quick action if you suspect it.
How do I treat fungal infections?
First of all, it is important to cut off all affected parts of the plant. Use a sharp and disinfected knife for this. Even if the cause wasn't too much moisture, it's best to replace the soil too. Fungi can be present on the soil and re-infect the plant. You can then wash the plant with a garlic decoction several times at intervals of a week. The plant should then be placed in full sun with a rain cover.
Tip
Sulfur powder or copper spray
If the fungus continues to appear despite all care measures, sulfur powder (€6.00 on Amazon) can help. If sulfur is spread on the leaves, sulfur dioxide forms on them. This toxic compound kills the fungi.
