Plant Disease Control

Plant diseases are caused by a number of different organisms, just like human diseases. Insects are not usually considered a disease, so they are discussed in a separate guide to insect control.

The majority of plant diseases are caused by fungal infections. It is important to treat these thoroughly and carefully, since a fungal infection can spread by spores on the wind and can devastate large populations. Dutch elm disease is just one example of how unchecked spread of fungal infections can kill plants; many of the fungi that infest plants can also be dangerous to humans. One example of this is ergot, which affects many types of grains and can sicken or kill people.

Plants can also contract viruses, bacterial infections, and nematode infections.

Unfortunately, the diversity of fungal infections can make it hard to identify exactly what your plants have. This guide from Lowe's will help you with lawn diseases; this guide from Oregon State University will help you with just about every other disease.

Fugicide

Assuming all efforts at prevention and organic control have failed, fungicide  may be your only answer to a severe fungal infection. There are some organic fungicides, but most are not. Sulfur  and copper  solutions and powders are the two most commonly used organic fungicides.

Some fungicides can be dangerous to human health. Before applying any chemicals, be sure to read the directions carefully and follow them exactly. Also take precautions when applying fungicides to edible crops; not all are safe for food plants.

External Links

• Lowe's -- guide to lawn diseases.
• Oregon State University -- extensive guide to plant diseases and treatments -- focus is on the Pacific Northwest, but may be applicable in other areas as well.
• Wikipedia -- plant pathology, focus on causes.