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Baby’s breath, or Gypsophila, is a mainstay in many ornamental flower beds and in carefully planned cut-flower gardens. Most commonly seen when used as a filler in flower arrangements, baby’s breath plants are also useful when wishing to add airy texture to flower borders. When healthy, these plants will produce a profusion of small white blooms in spring and throughout the growing season.
However, if choosing to grow baby’s breath in the flower garden, there are some common Gypsophila diseases that may cause rapid decline in the health of the plants – problems you should be aware of.
Baby’s breath is a beloved annual flower known for its delicate white blooms that add an airy touch to any garden. However, this beauty can become plagued by the fungal disease black spot, which manifests as dark lesions on the leaves. If left untreated black spot can weaken and eventually kill your baby’s breath. The key is early intervention – spotting the first signs of infection and taking prompt action. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the causes of black spot, how to identify it, effective treatment options, and preventative care to stop black spot in its tracks.
What Causes Black Spot on Baby’s Breath?
Black spot on baby’s breath is caused by a fungal pathogen, most commonly Diplocarpon rosae. This aggressive fungus thrives in warm, humid environments with poor air circulation. Overhead watering and crowded plantings also encourage fungal growth and spread. Spores enter through openings or wounds on leaves, infecting the foliage. As the fungus advances, it produces the characteristic black spots. Without treatment, the fungus will continue engulfing the leaf tissue until the entire plant is overcome.
How to Identify Black Spot on Baby’s Breath
Learn to recognize the early symptoms of black spot to catch infestations before major damage occurs
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Small, circular black spots on leaves – These start out roughly the size of a pinhead and have defined edges. As they grow the spots may merge into large blotches.
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Yellowing/browning of infected leaves – Leaves with black spot often turn yellow or brown around the lesions before dropping off entirely.
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Premature leaf drop – In advanced cases, heavy leaf loss results from the fungus killing the foliage.
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White fungal growth on the undersides of leaves – Visible mold may appear on the undersides of infected leaves in very humid conditions.
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Spreading lesions – Without treatment, the number and size of spots will progressively increase.
Routinely inspect both the tops and undersides of leaves to spot problems right away. Focus on lower, older leaves which are typically infected first.
Effective Treatments for Black Spot
Once black spot is confirmed on your baby’s breath, take action with these proven treatment methods:
Prune Out Infected Areas
Pruning away affected leaves and stems helps remove potential sources of spores. Use clean, sterilized shears to cut at least 2 inches below visible black spots. Bag and dispose of the trimmings – do not compost. Be diligent about cleaning tools between each cut to avoid spreading the fungus.
Improve Air Circulation
Fungi thrive in still, stagnant air. Improve airflow around plants by spacing them appropriately, eliminating overcrowding, and avoiding enclosures like walls or tight fences. Gently blowing fans can also keep air moving.
Apply Fungicides
For moderate or severe cases, fungicides provide the knock-out punch against fungal pathogens. Look for targeted products containing chlorothalonil, myclobutanil, or copper sulfate. Stick to a regular application schedule for lasting results. Always follow label instructions carefully.
Use a Mulch Barrier
Mulch forms a physical barrier against splashback from contaminated soil. Organic mulches like shredded bark or straw work well. Maintain a 2-3 inch layer, keeping it an inch or two away from stems.
Water at the Base
Prevent moisture on foliage by watering at soil level. Drip irrigation or soaker hoses are ideal. If using a sprinkler, aim it low to keep leaves dry. Water early in the day so plants dry quickly.
Boost Air Circulation
Improve light penetration and airflow by regularly pruning overcrowded stems and interior branches. Focus on selectively opening the center without excessive removal of foliage.
Apply Baking Soda Spray
For mild cases, a baking soda spray can help inhibit fungal growth. Mix 1 tablespoon baking soda + 1⁄2 teaspoon oil + 1 quart water. Reapply every 1-2 weeks as needed. The oil helps the solution stick to foliage.
Preventing Black Spot on Baby’s Breath
Stop black spot before it ever gets a foothold by incorporating these proactive care measures:
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Space plants appropriately to encourage air circulation
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Water early in the day, aiming at soil level
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Use drip irrigation or soaker hoses to keep foliage dry
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Promote good drainage by planting in raised beds when possible
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Prune interior branches and avoid overcrowding
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Scout regularly for early symptoms
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Remove and destroy infected plant material
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Disinfect tools between plants
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Use preventative fungicides when conditions favor black spot
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Lower humidity with fans if environment is very moist
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Avoid overhead watering and irrigation
With vigilance and preventative care, you can help your baby’s breath thrive without the scourge of black spot. Stay on the lookout for early symptoms and be prepared to take action at the first sign of infection. A strategic, multi-pronged approach combining cultural methods, targeted treatments, and prevention will provide the best protection against this aggressive fungus. Keep your plants happy and healthy through attentive, proactive care and your baby’s breath will continue delighting you with bountiful, beautiful blooms.
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Common Problems with Baby’s Breath
Baby’s breath disease issues can generally be divided into two of the most likely to occur issues– blight and rot. While these diseases of baby’s breath plants are common, prevention is often the key to avoiding the loss of plants. Additionally, awareness of the signs and symptoms will help to control and prevent the spread of infection throughout other plantings of the flower.
Baby’s Breath Crown and Stem Rot
Rot can infect baby’s breath in the crown of the plant as well as the stems. Sources of rot can be caused by soil borne pathogens that are the result of poor garden maintenance or soils that do not drain sufficiently.
Among the first signs of rot in baby’s breath plants is a sudden yellowing of leaves or complete collapse of the plant. In many cases, rot can cause complete loss of the baby’s breath plants.
How To Prevent Black Spots on Plants
FAQ
How to treat black spot disease on plants?
What is the fungus on baby’s breath?
What is the disease in baby’s breath?
Why is my baby’s breath turning brown?
How do you grow a Baby Breath plant?
Dig a hole two or three times as wide and deep as the plant. Remove your baby’s breath from its container and place it in the hole. You will want to line the crown of the plant (where the stem meets the roots) with the soil line. You might need to fill in the hole you dig a bit to get it to the right depth.
How do you repot Baby’s Breath?
Although it is a cold hardy plant, potted baby’s breath cannot handle freezing temperatures. Relocate the container to a spot in the ground or place it inside a larger container. When the root systems have matured, repot baby’s breath using fresh potting soil. The best time to do this is in the spring.
How do you care for Baby’s Breath?
Baby’s breath thrives in drier soil, so don’t go overboard with watering. They are well-suited for rock gardens and borders where other plants are not irrigated. Too much fertilizer can cause floppy growth. They are perfectly happy in less than ideal soil.
What should I do if my Baby’s Breath turns yellow?
If you notice yellowing of buds, and strange growth in your baby’s breath, remove the plants and destroy them. Do not compost them. Q: Does baby’s breath come back every year? Q: How does baby’s breath reproduce?