How to Treat Gummy Stem Blight
- 1). Space your plants the recommended distance apart. The spacing distance varies for each vegetable, but you must follow recommendations. Properly spaced plants allow for constant airflow and sunlight penetration, which prevent the buildup of moisture and fungus on the plants.
- 2). Remove any organic matter such as fallen leaves or dropped stems from the gardening area as soon as you notice them. Degrading matter holds moisture and can increase the growth of the gummy blight fungus.
- 3). Inspect your plants at least twice per week for beetles and aphids, and treat infestations you find with appropriate pesticides. These bugs jump from plant to plant and can spread fungus spores.
- 4). Water the plants only from the base, directly into the soil. Overhead watering allows excess moisture to sit on the stems and bodies of the fruit, encouraging fungus growth.
- 5). Spray infected plants as necessary with fungicide to kill the infection. Fungicides approved for use against powdery mildew will also treat gummy stem blight. The fungicides you will be able to access will vary by area controls, so use what you can. Be sure to follow all application direction carefully to avoid harming the plants. Reapply every two weeks as necessary to control the infection.
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