Garden MD
Practical answers for common garden problems

Solution Guide

Remove and treat black spot

Sanitation matters as much as any spray, since black spot spores overwinter in fallen leaves and reinfect the plant the following season.

Difficulty

Moderate

Time

30 to 45 minutes, plus a seasonal spray schedule

Cost

$$

Steps

  1. 1. Remove and dispose of infected leaves, including any that have already dropped, rather than composting them.
  2. 2. Apply a copper fungicide on a label-appropriate schedule once sanitation and airflow are addressed.
  3. 3. Water at the base of the plant instead of overhead to keep foliage drier.