Sasha CampbellRust diseases affect many different plants, although most rust fungi are host-specific. The fungi also thrive in mild, damp conditions.
If untreated, plant leaves may turn yellow or brown and fall off [1]. Commonly affected plants include hollyhocks, roses, beans, tomatoes, snapdragons, and some houseplants.
Chemical sprays are available to help control rust plant diseases. However, organic gardeners can also use several natural remedies and preventive methods to manage the problem.
How to Treat Rust on Plants Organically
Rust diseases often appear as orange, yellow, brown, or reddish powdery spots on plant leaves and stems. Below are some natural solutions that may help treat or prevent rust diseases.
1. Baking Soda
Baking soda sprays may help slow the spread of rust and other fungal diseases when used early. This product is also widely available.
A basic solution is one teaspoon of baking soda in a quart of water, along with a small amount of liquid organic soap. However, experts suggest adding 4 teaspoons of baking soda to 1 ounce of horticultural oil and 1 gallon of water.
Mix well, then use it as a foliar spray to help control rust fungi on plants.
2. Neem Oil
This popular gardener’s aid is effective as a natural fungicide for controlling plant rust.
Neem oil sprays are available for purchase online and at garden stores.
Alternatively, make a homemade plant spray for rust. Combine one teaspoon of neem oil, ½ teaspoon of mild liquid soap, and 1 liter of water.
Spray affected plants, particularly leaves, once per week to help reduce rust spread. You can also use the treatment every 2 weeks to help prevent a fungal recurrence.
Neem oil may also help control certain insect pests that weaken plants and contribute to overall plant stress.
3. Prune Infected Leaves and Branches
Rust fungi can spread to other plants of the same genus. Therefore, pruning infected leaves and stems will help stop the spread and encourage new, healthy growth.
After pruning, clear any rusted leaves and debris from around the base of the plants. Next, apply a protective fungicidal spray to the healthy plants.
Also, cut back any overhanging tree branches to let in light and air. Dark, damp, and humid conditions will only encourage fungal growth.
Pruning is the recommended control method for white pine blister rust.
4. Bonide Liquid Copper Fungicide
Bonide is a commonly used copper fungicide that controls rust in gardens and other fungal diseases on trees, ornamentals, and crops.
This ready-for-use copper soap spray helps suppress rust infections on plants.
It is also safe to use in your organic garden. However, use it as directed on the packaging.
Spray the undersides and upper surfaces of leaves and stems. Repeat every 7 to 10 days or as needed, depending on the severity of the infection.
This product works well for cedar apple rust and coffee rust. It may also help manage myrtle rust on Lilly Pilly plants.
5. Bonide Sulfur Plant Fungicide
This commercial product is formulated to prevent fungal spores from developing.
The sulfur fungicide comes in a powdered form, allowing you to dust it on all areas of plants vulnerable to rust or mildew.
Alternatively, mix it with water to create a solution best applied with a garden sprayer, as recommended on the product label.
Bonide Sulfur is generally non-toxic to pets and wildlife. However, it is toxic to some aquatic creatures, so avoid using it in areas near ponds or water features.
Also, avoid applying sulfur products within a couple of weeks of using oil-based sprays, as this may damage plant foliage [2].
Applied with care, this product can prevent rust spores from germinating and ruining crops.
6. Clean Up Plant Leaves and Debris
Cleaning up is another essential practice to help prevent rust spots on leaves from developing and spreading. The fungus can overwinter, so clear away all debris from under and around the plants.
7. Avoid Overhead Sprinklers
Proper watering can help keep the garden free of leaf rust. Overhead watering is likely to create a moist environment that encourages the germination of rust fungus spores.
Overhead watering also causes splashing. Consequently, the rust can spread through splashing water.
The solution is to water around the roots using a watering can or to install a drip irrigation system.
8. Mulch the Soil After Cleanup
Using a thick layer of mulch will also help prevent the spores from splashing back onto the leaves.
Additionally, mulch helps protect plant roots and lower stems.
It also keeps the soil moist, avoiding the need to water frequently. It will keep weeds down, too.
9. Space Plants Properly
An abundance of flowers growing in the garden can be pleasant to see. However, overplanting can create favorable conditions for certain pests and diseases.
Most plants thrive when given enough space to absorb adequate water, nutrients, and light.
Fungal problems like rust can appear in dark, damp, tightly packed areas where water droplets or wind can easily spread spores.
As a result, resisting the temptation to fill every space will ultimately pay off.
10. Remove Weeds That Host Rust
Certain weeds and wildflowers can harbor rust. Wild mallow hosts hollyhock rust, and willow herb is well known as a host of fuchsia rust.
Therefore, thoroughly root out the infected weeds and dispose of them. Additionally, some rust fungus spores can overwinter and germinate in the spring.
So, clear away all pulled-out weeds with rust fungus from the garden before the gardening season arrives. Dispose of infected debris according to local yard waste guidelines.
Takeaway
Different rust diseases can affect plants. Fortunately, most respond to natural control treatments.
Consistently using these organic methods can help reduce rust outbreaks and keep plants healthier over time.
See also: eliminating powdery mildew naturally.
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