How to Get Rid of Rust on Beans

Bean rust is a fungal plant disease that can lead to leaves falling prematurely and losing part of a crop's yield. Symptoms of rust include red-brown, dusty-looking spores and yellow markings on the leaves of bean plants. Rust spores most commonly flourish in the cooler temperatures of the spring, before the heat of summer arrives. Getting rid of rust on bean plants can be difficult, but if you catch the rust in its early stages, you can save the plants.

Fungicide

Instructions

- 1
  Water beans early in the day so that the water dries before nightfall. Soggy foliage and soil increase the risk of fungi, as well as bacterial diseases. Use a soil that drains well so that swampy areas won't form in your garden.
- 2
  Spray bean plants with fungicides to prevent rust even when no symptoms are noticeable. Use chlorothalonil- or maneb-based fungicides before midsummer, when rust is most prevalent.
- 3
  Spray bean plants with a different type of fungicide as soon as you notice symptoms of rust. Sprays containing chlorothalonil or sulphur destroy the spores. The amount of fungicide needed varies depending on which specific chemical you use; check the package for directions. Dilute the fungicide for optimum effectiveness against rust. A single application of chemicals should be mixed with 5 gallons of water for each acre of beans you treat. Rust can return in 10- to 14-day cycles, so repeat treatments may be required.
- 4
  Rotate bean crops every couple of years to get rid of rust spores that live through the winter in the soil. This helps to prevent the disease from striking during the next growing season. Till the soil well before planting new crops to get rid of debris from infected bean plants.

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