Carrot: Leaf spot
categories: Carrot Carrot Diseases Vegetables
revision date: 2022-12-07 12:00
Photo by: R.S. Byther
Biology
Leaf spot of carrot is also known as early blight. It is a fungal disease. The disease produces leaf and stem spots, primarily attacking young leaves. Initially the spots are small, with yellow halos or margins. Older lesions may become tan or light gray as the fungus produces spores on the infected tissues. Severe infections may result in death of leaves. Disease spores can be spread by wind. The fungus primarily overwinters in diseased plant material. Leaf spot may be confused with leaf blight, which generally attacks older foliage.
Management Options
Use Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for successful plant problem management.
Non-chemical Management
Select non-chemical management options as your first choice!
- Rotate crops. Allow two or three years between carrot crops in a given location.
- Plant in well-drained soils.
- Schedule watering so that carrots are dry by night.
- Remove plant debris from the garden. Destroy or discard (do not compost) diseased materials.
Chemical Management
IMPORTANT: Visit Home and Garden Fact Sheets for more information on using pesticides.
- Apply when plants are 6 inches tall or when disease threatens.
- Repeat at weekly intervals if necessary.
Approved Pesticides
Listed below are examples of pesticides that are legal in Washington. Always read and follow all label directions.