Gardening is a rewarding and therapeutic activity, but it’s not without challenges—plant diseases being one of the most common. A proactive approach to managing and preventing the spread of disease is essential for maintaining a healthy garden.
Recently, we noticed signs of fungal disease on some leaves discarded near raised garden beds at VISTA Gardens. This serves as an important reminder to all gardeners: plant disease prevention begins with proper handling of affected plants.
Spotting the Symptoms
Take a close look at your plants. If you notice spots, discoloration, or other symptoms of disease on leaves—like those on tomato plants—don’t wait. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent further spread. For more details, the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Science (UF/IFAS) offers a helpful guide: Tomato Disease Management.
You can also download the PDF directly here:
What You Can Do
Remove Diseased Leaves: Carefully cut off the affected leaves and place them directly into a sealed bag to take home for disposal. Avoid tossing them on the ground, as this can spread disease spores.
Skip the Compost: Diseased leaves should never go into compost piles or collection containers at VISTA, as this can introduce pathogens to the soil.
Sanitize Tools and Gloves: After working with a diseased plant, use a spray bottle of rubbing alcohol (70% isopropyl alcohol) to thoroughly clean your gardening tools and gloves. Keeping a spray bottle in your gardening kit is a simple and effective practice.
When Disease Progresses
If the disease spreads despite your efforts, consider using an OMRI-approved biofungicide. These products are safe for organic gardening and can help control fungal issues without harming the environment.
By taking these steps, you’re not just protecting your own garden—you’re safeguarding the community garden as a whole. Let’s work together to keep our plants healthy and thriving!
Visual Guide
To help clarify, here are photos illustrating what to do and what not to do when managing diseased plants.
These small actions can make a big difference in preventing the spread of disease.
Need Help?
If you’re unsure about how to manage plant diseases or have any gardening questions, there are plenty of resources to guide you:
Search Online: The internet is a treasure trove of gardening tips and best practices. Look for credible sources like university agricultural extensions or gardening organizations.
Visit Our Website: Check out VISTA Gardens’ website! Use the search bar, located in the dropdown menu (accessible via the three horizontal lines in the top right corner), to find helpful information.
Email Us: Have specific questions? Reach out directly to the VISTA team at vistagardentampa@gmail.com. We’re here to support your gardening journey!
Local Resources: Take advantage of nearby educational resources like the UF-IFAS Extension for Hillsborough County. They offer workshops, plant clinics, and expert advice tailored to our area in Tampa, specifically Carrollwood, FL.
Remember, gardening is a collaborative and learning experience. Don’t hesitate to seek help or share your knowledge to keep our garden community thriving!
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