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Painted-leaf begonia > Dark blotch
What Causes Dark Blotch on Painted-leaf begonia Leaves?
Painted-leaf begonia, also known as Rex begonia
Dark blotch is a fungal disease affecting Painted-leaf begonia, causing black or dark brown lesions on the leaves. This condition deteriorates the plant's aesthetics and health, potentially leading to its death in severe cases.

Symptom Analysis

The initial signs of infection exhibit as small, irregular dark green marks (in various shapes) on leaf surfaces, mainly along leaf veins. Over time, these patches enlarge, becoming black or dark brown, resembling blotches.
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What Causes Dark blotch Disease on Painted-leaf begonia?

Botrytis cinerea
The fungus Botrytis cinerea causes the Dark blotch disease. The fungus sporulates under high humidity conditions, infecting the damp leaves of the Painted-leaf begonia.
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How to Treat Dark blotch Disease on Painted-leaf begonia?

Non pesticide
Removal of Infected Plants: Remove and dispose of heavily infected Painted-leaf begonia plants to prevent the spread of the fungus to healthy plants.

Environmental Modification: Modify the area's humidity levels, improve air circulation, and avoid overwatering as preventing damp conditions hampers the fungus' development.
Pesticide
Fungicide Application: Apply broad-spectrum fungicides, specifically those containing active ingredients like chlorothalonil or mancozeb, to control the disease.

How to Prevent Dark blotch on Painted-leaf begonia?

Proper Watering Practices
Avoid overhead watering and water during the morning hours to give the leaves enough drying time, reducing the fungal attack.
Seasonal Pruning
Regular pruning can promote air circulation within the plant, decreasing humidity and thus lessening the likelihood of the disease.
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When is Dark blotch Most Active Period on Painted-leaf begonia?

The disease is most active during warm, rainy seasons, particularly spring and fall. This is due to the increase in humidity and temperature, which are conducive for the fungus' growth and spread.

Infectivity

Painted-leaf begonia plants in proximity can easily catch the disease due to airborne fungal spores, particularly in damp, enclosed conditions.

Lethality

While not always lethal, Dark blotch can cause significant harm to weak or stressed plants, potentially leading to plant death if left untreated.

FAQs on Painted-leaf Begonia

Does Dark blotch permanently deform the Painted-leaf begonia plant?
Depends on the severity of the infection. Minor infections may leave only slight, negligible marks, but severe cases can cause permanent defoliation or even plant death.
How quickly can Dark blotch spread on a single Painted-leaf begonia plant?
The progression varies based on environmental conditions. In an environment with high humidity and optimal temperatures, the disease spread can be rapid.
Does Dark blotch only affect the leaves of the Painted-leaf begonia?
Predominantly, Dark blotch targets the foliage. However, in severe cases, it can also render damage to the stem.
Can Dark blotch disease be eradicated completely from my Painted-leaf begonia plant?
Full eradication can be challenging due to its sporulation nature. But the disease can be effectively managed with proper and timely treatment.
Is it safe to consume products of a Painted-leaf begonia plant infected by Dark blotch?
Painted-leaf begonia is an ornamental plant, not meant for consumption. Therefore, it is advisable not to ingest any part of this plant, whether infected or not.
Can Dark blotch disease be transferred from a Painted-leaf begonia plant to other plant types?
Yes, Dark blotch disease can infect a variety of plants, not just Painted-leaf begonia. It is crucial to isolate infected plants to prevent disease spread.
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