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  • How to get rid of anthracnose in the soil?

    Created by Wheat1 on September 1, 2018 at 8:03 am

    I have a few Magnolia trees that have been diagnosed with anthracnose. I understand that anthracnose lives in the soil and can be transported by fallen leaves, seeds and branches. I clean up all fallen items daily. I have treated the trees. Do I treat the soil too? if so, what should I use to treat the soil and how often and when should I begin treatment. It currently late summer/fall in Texas. One tree was in bad shape before it was diagnosed but it appears to be coming back. The 3 other magnolias all in the same place had signs of anthracnose. Thank you for your guidance.

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  • September 18, 2018 at 11:52 am #290546

    Eric Vinje
    Keymaster

    Hello –

    Anthracnose is a fungal disease that overwinters in soil and garden debris. Cool wet weather promotes its development, and the optimum temperature for continued growth of the spores is between 75-85ËšF. Moisture is required for development and germination of the fungus as well as for infection of the plant. It is spread by wind, rain, insects and garden tools. Here’s how to control anthracnose without using toxic fungicides and sprays.

    1. Keep the soil under plants/ trees clean and rake up any fallen debris immediately.

    2. Add a good amount of organic compost or mulch under plants and trees. Mulches will prevent fungal spores from splashing back up onto flowers and leaves.

    3. Water in the early morning hours, or use a soaker hose, to give leaves time to dry out during the day.

    4. Apply Liquid Copper (0.5 to 2.0 fluid ounces in a gallon of water) just before buds begin to swell, and repeat twice, at 7-day intervals.

    Hope it helps!

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