Basil is a very popular culinary herb, but is one of the plants that requires a lot of care. If the basil plant is not properly cared for, gray mold can form. In this article we explain everything about gray mold infestation of basil.
Is basil susceptible to gray mold infestation?
Basil is one of the plants that isvery susceptible to gray mold infestation. Basil plants that are weakened and have greatly reduced resistance to pests and diseases are particularly at risk.
What are the first signs of gray mold infestation?
Infestation with gray mold first becomes apparent on theleaves of the basil- theydiscolorturn light to dark brown and have watery-looking spots. It is important to know that the gray mold with the botanical name Botrytis cinerea can attack both basil planted in beds and herbs grown in pots and is generally associated with too much moisture.
How does gray mold spread on basil?
If the leaves are infected, the gray mold usually spreadsvery quicklyand individual parts of the plant die. The technical term for this isNecrosis Gradually the entire plant is affected by gray rot and a kind of fungal lawn forms with the gray color that gives the disease its name. If the basil has flowers, they are also affected by gray mold. They also change color and hang limply from the stems before the mushroom turf forms.
What are the consequences of gray mold infestation?
Basil plants on which gray mold has spread canAs a rule, they can no longer be savedThey usually die completely. Once the fungal disease has spread to the entire plant, it must be disposed of. If only individual leaves are affected, it may be worth trying to remove them as quickly as possible. These leaves must not be consumed or dried. In the event of an infestation with gray mold, a severe loss of harvest, and usually even a complete failure of the harvest, can be expected.
How can gray mold be avoided on basil?
To prevent gray mold infestation, basil must be properly cared for. This includesproper supply of water:
- Excess water must be able to drain away (that's why permeable soil is very important)
- Basil in the pot must not stand in water
- Waterlogging must be avoided at all costs,
- Basil must always be watered from below so that the leaves do not get wet
Tip
Create unfavorable conditions for the fungus
Not only basil, but also raspberries, blackberries, lettuce, tomatoes and cucumbers are very susceptible to infestation. To ensure that the fungus feels as uncomfortable as possible in the garden, you should always ensure that the soil is permeable. We also recommend mixed cultures with garlic, which can have a preventive effect against gray mold infestation, as well as sufficiently large distances between the individual plants.
