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Produce => Edible Plants => Topic started by: 1066 on November 23, 2009, 08:48:56

Title: Spinach + rusty patches
Post by: 1066 on November 23, 2009, 08:48:56

Hi

I've noticed that my spinach leaves have small rust spots / patches on the backs of the leaves. What is it, what has caused it and how could I stop it happening in the 1st place?


Thanks
1066

Title: Re: Spinach + rusty patches
Post by: Robert_Brenchley on November 23, 2009, 18:54:57

It's a fungus. Fortunately, it doesn't seem to do much harm unless it takes over all the foliage.

Title: Re: Spinach + rusty patches
Post by: 1066 on November 24, 2009, 07:39:53

thanks Robert. It's fairly patchy, and still tastes delicious!
So does anyone know what causes it? - I'm curious now!

1066

Title: Re: Spinach + rusty patches
Post by: saddad on November 24, 2009, 08:01:43

I get it too... on older plants where the drainage is poorer... but as we replace them each year in different areas I just  let it go...  :-\

Title: Re: Spinach + rusty patches
Post by: Robert_Brenchley on November 24, 2009, 17:41:15

Like any fungus, it likes damp conditions. These rusts are always around, but if you have a damp, airless spot, or a wet summer, they can really take hold.

Title: Re: Spinach + rusty patches
Post by: 1066 on November 25, 2009, 08:59:14

thanks for the further explanation guys, all this info gleaned on here doesn't go to waste! (well maybe not all the info on this website...  ::) )

1066