The rhododendron blooms in magnificent colors year after year. The incomparable look of the plant inspires many hobby gardeners. However, if this picture is disturbed by the appearance of gray mold rot, care measures should be taken immediately. This will save the plant in time.
What should I do if there is gray mold rot on the rhododendron?
Gray mold rot is combated on rhododendrons using plant-friendly home remedies such ashorsetail broth or nettle manure. One hundred grams of the leaves are mixed with one liter of water and sprayed onto the affected rhododendron leaves, flowers and stems. The measure is repeated several times if necessary.
What does gray mold rot look like on a rhododendron?
If the rhododendron is affected by a fungal infection such as gray mold rot, awhite to gray coating will become visible on some parts of the plant. This is already an advanced stage of gray mold infestation, which manifests itself in brown spots. The stubborn mold is caused by the fungus Botrytis cinerea, which endangers the he alth of the plant. If you clearly identify gray mold rot, you should take immediate action. The infestation progresses and also affects neighboring plants. The untreated disease ultimately leads to the death of the hardy rhododendron.
Do you have to cut the rhododendron if there is gray mold rot?
If you discover gray mold rot on your rhododendron, you must immediately cut off the affected parts of the plantUse a suitable garden tool such as scissors or pliers. A sharp knife is also useful for cutting the rhododendron. Be sure to do this carefully and thoroughly so as not to damage the plant. However, do not tear anything off by hand. This harms the rhododendron in the long term. The dead plant remains must not be disposed of in the compost as the fungus also spreads there. Be sure to throw the leaves in the trash.
How do you protect the rhododendron from gray mold rot?
Unfortunately there is no complete protection against gray mold rot, butsimple preventative measures are recommended. The plant needs some fertilizer every now and then. Therefore, add natural substrates regularly. However, avoid using chemical fungicides when fertilizing rhododendrons. These usually have negative effects on plant he alth. You should also water the rhododendron. A sufficient supply of irrigation water is urgently necessary. However, make sure that there is no waterlogging. This ultimately promotes the appearance of the annoying gray mold.
Tip
Preventative remedies against gray mold rot on rhododendrons
The rhododendron is easy to care for and therefore does not need constant care. Nevertheless, it should be protected from harmful influences such as gray mold rot. Home remedies are extremely helpful here. The natural substrates provide the plant with important minerals and nutrients. This strengthens the plant. Coffee grounds, green and black tea, eggshells, horn shavings and vegetable water have proven to be extremely helpful fertilizers.
