So ... What is Black Spot?
Black spot is an infectious fungal disease that affects most types of roses, though some species are more resistant than others to this particular disease.
Characteristics
Black Spot resembles black splotches, which then develop leaf yellowing around the spots. Black spot typically occurs during moist, humid conditions and are usually wind-borne and rain splashed to newly emerging leaf tissue. Using a product, such as Safer® Brand Garden Fungicide, will cure your roses of black spot to ensure they are healthy all season long!
Symptoms of Black Spot Damage
Black Spot looks like black splotches which then develop leaf yellowing around them.
- Plants infected with Black Spot can experience any of the following results:
- Yellowing of leaves or tissue death
- Premature leaf drop
- General decline in the growth and vigor of the plant
Plants That Are Susceptible to Black Spot
Most types of roses, though some species are more resistant than others to this particular disease. Many shrub rose varieties show resistance to this disease while many hybrid tea roses are very susceptible. Protect your plants by using Safer® Brand Garden Fungicide to cure them from black spot and other diseases.
Black Spot Controls
What?
Safer® Brand Garden Fungicide can kill existing black spot on contact and control future outbreaks.
How?
Sulfur or Copper fungicides change the pH balance of the plant, creating an environment where Black Spot and other fungal blights cannot thrive.
Most solutions help with disease control because when the soil is healthy, (and not full of harmful chemicals) there is a never-ending battle between the good microbes and the pathogens resulting in microbes often winning.
Carefully read and follow all instructions on the product packaging for positive results. It is recommended with any pesticide to test plants for sensitivity to the product. Spray a small section of the plant in an inconspicuous area and wait 24 hours before full coverage.
IMPORTANT: Do not use products containing Neem Oil within 14 days of applying Safer® Brand Garden Fungicide. The mix of both products can greatly increase risk of phototoxicity (burning) to your plant.
When?
Spray Safer® Brand Garden Fungicide when you notice the symptoms of Black Spot and then again as needed in 7 to 10 day increments. As a general rule, much like watering, do not use these products in the peak of the day or when temperatures exceed 90 degrees F to avoid wilting or browning of the leaves.
Safer® Brand Garden Fungicide can also be used as a preventative measure against fungal infections because the fungicide changes the pH of the plant and creates an environment that is not conducive to disease growth. Treatment once a month is recommended but in heavy rain seasons, treat every 7 to 10 days for best results.
Why Chose a Disease-Fighting Solution?
Using disease-fighting solutions in your garden is an important step in controlling diseases such as black spot.
Some ingredients, such as the patented seaweed extract in some of Safer® Brand Garden Fungicides, actively increase a plant’s resistance to disease because it is a root growth stimulator, controlling many types of plant pathogens through increased biological activity. This is what many gardening experts refer to when they talk about the natural defenses of a plant and it is similar to antibodies in a human immune system.
Treating an infected plant with a fungicide such as Safer® Brand Garden Fungicide is treating a symptom of the bigger problem. Keeping the living organism in the soil protected by using these products is not only good for the global environment; it also helps protect your plants from further outbreaks and other issues like insects.
Limit Black Spot Outbreaks With These Garden Tips
Leaves
Keep leaves dry. Black spot thrives in wet conditions. When possible, plant roses in sunny areas with low density plant life so after rain the sun and air flow will dry the leaves quickly.
Remove all diseased leaves from the plant and surrounding areas throughout the season and once again before winter.
Soil
Another key for reducing the likelihood of black spot and other diseases is making sure the soil around your plant is properly drained. Without proper drainage, your planting area can be a ripe breeding ground for disease organisms.
Composting
Finally adding organic materials through composting will generate beneficial microorganism activity which fights away disease and other garden problems.
Safer® Brand leads the alternative lawn and garden products industry, offering many solutions that are compliant with organic gardening standards. Safer® Brand recognizes this growing demand by consumers and offers a wide variety of products for lawns, gardens, landscapes, flowers, houseplants, insects and more!
