Cold, cloudy weather causing bedding plant problems

Univ. of Md. extension personnel report growers have recently seen damage to some bedding plants because of cold temperatures. Damage has been seen on calibrachoa and verbena. In previous years, New Guinea impatiens have also suffered damage. Extension officials advise growers if weather conditions remain cloudy and cold for extended periods of time to check plants for Botrytis (gray mold) which can infect damaged foliage. Growers should be sure their plants are adequately spaced to allow for good air circulation. Dead flowers should also be removed discarded since they can act as inoculants source of the disease pathogen.

Pictured: Cool, cloudy weather helps to promote Botrytis infection on bedding plant crops.
Photo by Univ. of Md. Extension