Black leaves on the Physalis indicate that something is wrong. In this guide we will tell you possible causes of the dark leaf discoloration and explain what you can do about it.
What to do if the physalis has black leaves?
If the Physalis has black leaves, the cause is usually a lack of nutrients, cold or sooty mold caused by a lice infestation. If there is a lack of nutrients, we recommendcareful fertilization, if it is cold,immediately moving into the houseand if there is sooty mold,fighting lice
Why does my Physalis have black leaves?
If you notice black leaves on your Physalis, it is usually due to one of the following reasons:
- Nutrient deficiency, e.g. phosphorus
- Cold, e.g. if the plant has been exposed to cool temperatures for too long
- Sootdew, especially due to an infestation with aphids, scale insects or mealybugs
If the leaves of the Physalis haveseveral black spots, it is probably sooty mold. Thisfungus clogs the leaf pores and thereby inhibits photosynthesis. It does not damage the plant further. But: The lice that are usually the cause are a danger to the Physalis.
How do I combat black leaves on Physalis?
If your Physalis has black leaves, the first step you should take is tofind out what the problem is. Depending on the cause, you caninitiate the appropriate countermeasure.
- If there is a nutrient deficiency, it is recommended to fertilize the Physalis carefully. Don't overdo it!
- If the frost-sensitive nightshade plant has been exposed to the cold for a long time, you should bring the plant into the house as quickly as possible to save it and keep it for several years.
- In the case of sooty mold, the most important thing is to combat thecause (lice).
Remove the black leaves regardless of the exact cause.
Tip
Prevent black leaves on Physalis
To prevent the leaves of the Physalis from turning black in the first place, you should make sure that you keep the plant
– place it in a sunny place, – care for it properly, – bring it into the house sufficiently early in the cool season to overwinter it there, and– only in spring move outside again after the last frosts.
