Leaf spot diseases seen in retail, landscape settings

Univ. of Md. Plant Diagnostic Lab has received samples of Rudbeckia ‘Goldsturm’ infected with Septoria leaf spot and zinnia infected with bacterial leaf spot. Plant pathologist Karen Rane said plants spaced closely on the retail shelf or in landscape plantings are prone to these diseases.

She said the lower leaves of plants should be inspected for diseases symptoms. These are the leaves that tend to remain wet the longest following irrigation and are therefore the most susceptible to the diseases.

Increased plant spacing that would allow the foliage to dry more quickly may not be possible. Removal of infected leaves as soon as the symptoms are seen can help to prevent the disease from spreading to the rest of the plant and surrounding plants.