DISEASE ID · BACTERIAL DISEASE
Bacterial leaf spot
Also called Bacterial leaf spots, Xanthomonas leaf spot
Small dark spots on the leaves of shrubs and flowers, caused by bacteria. Sprays made for fungus do not clear it up.
How to spot it
- Spots look wet or greasy at first, often on the underside of the leaf
- Spots turn brown to black, often with a yellow ring around them
- Spots can be round or angular, with edges set by the leaf veins
- Often starts on the lower leaves
- Leaves can twist or distort on some plants
Why it shows up
The bacteria live in dead plant debris. Splashing water carries them from leaf to leaf, and they get in through tiny natural openings or wounds. Warm, wet weather and working around wet plants make it spread.
How we treat it
We’ll identify it on a visit and recommend the right fix. Cleanup comes first: remove infected leaves and plants, and keep the foliage dry. Fungus sprays don't work on bacteria. If it's a bad case, we'll talk through your options with you.
What you can do
- Remove infected leaves and bag them. Do not leave them under the plant.
- Water early in the day, at the base of the plant, not over the leaves.
- Stay out of the bed when the plants are wet. It spreads the bacteria.
WANT IT HANDLED?
Let a licensed applicator take it from here.
Tell us about your lawn. We’ll get back to you with a free quote.
Prefer to talk? 817-382-1722Licensed applicator, Texas Department of Agriculture · License #0984138