Geranium: Botrytis leaf spot and blossom blight
categories: Flowers Geranium Geranium Diseases Ornamentals
last review date: 2025-07-28 05:21
Photo by: R.S. Byther
Biology
Botrytis is a fungus which thrives under mild environmental conditions. Brown, water-soaked areas appear on leaves and petals. The spots soon dry out and become covered with gray-brown masses of fungal growth.
Flowers wilt and drop. Brown leaf lesions often result after petals drop on leaves. Stock plants may show a stem blight.
Management Options
Use Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for successful plant problem management.
Non-chemical Management
Select non-chemical management options as your first choice!
- An integrated strategy combining environmental management and cultural practices will best manage this disease.
- Remove and burn infected leaves.
- Increase spacing between plants.
- Water at base of plants and/or with drip irrigation, do not wet foliage.
Chemical Management
IMPORTANT: Visit Home and Garden Fact Sheets for more information on using pesticides.
- Disease should be managed with cultural controls.
Additional Image
Photo by: R.S. Byther
WSU Extension programs and employment are available to all without discrimination.
Evidence of noncompliance may be reported through your local Extension office.