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How to Get Rid of Botrytis Leaf Spots on a Plant

Botrytis blight, or gray mold, is a detrimental fungal disease that can infect all areas of the plant, including stems, foliage, flowers and fruit. This spore-borne disease is most aggressive during the cool, rainy periods of spring and fall. The spores take shelter on decaying areas of previously infected plants, as well as on fallen leaves and other debris that lie around the plant. The infected plant develops fuzzy coatings of gray mold, causing the plant to experience dieback, growth stunt and decay.

Things You'll Need

  • Fungicidal spray
  • Pruning shears
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Instructions

    • 1

      Treat your infected plant for botrytis blight as soon as it shows signs of infection. Look for small, grayish spots of mold on the foliage, as well as small, water-soaked spots of decay on the foliage and other areas of the plant.

    • 2

      Use sharp, sterile shears to cut away the infected foliage, flowers and fruit from the plant. Sterilize the shears between each cut to prevent spreading the infection throughout the plant. Remove all dead and dying areas, as well as areas that appear to be wilting or experiencing stunted growth.

    • 3

      Treat the infected plant with a chemical fungicidal spray that is designed for botrytis plant. Be sure to select a fungicidal spray that is designed for your specific plant and apply the fungicidal spray according to the package’s directions to avoid injuring the plant. Treat severe infections of botrytis blight with multiple fungicidal treatments, as needed.

    • 4

      Take steps to prevent further botrytis blight infections. Irrigate the plant at soil-level in an effort to keep the foliage and flowers dry. Position the plant in a location that provides plenty of air circulation and good sunlight to promote healthy cell development and prevent the growth of fungal spores.

    • 5

      Keep the plant’s area free of organic debris to reduce the presence of fungal spores. Be sure to feed the plant periodically throughout the growing season to replenish its nutrients and promote strong, healthy development.