Blight in manuka trees is a
common disease that can cause significant damage if left untreated. It is
caused by a fungus, which infects the leaves
of the tree and causes dark, irregularly shaped spots to appear on the foliage.
These spots can grow and merge together, eventually causing the leaves to turn
black and fall off the tree.
Symptoms of blight in manuka
trees include:
- Dark spots on the leaves, which can be irregularly shaped and vary in size
- Yellowing or browning of the leaves around the spots
- Blackening and death of the leaves
- Defoliation, or the loss of leaves from the tree
Blight in manuka trees is often caused by environmental stress factors, such as prolonged wet or humid conditions, poor air circulation, and nutrient deficiencies. It can also be caused by insect or mite infestations, which weaken the tree and make it more susceptible to fungal infections. To treat blight in manuka trees, it is important to first identify the cause of the disease and address any underlying issues. Some possible solutions include:
- Improving air circulation around the tree by pruning and thinning out branches
- Removing any infected leaves and debris from around the tree to reduce the spread of the fungus
- Applying fungicides to the tree to control the fungal infection
- Improving soil drainage and fertility by adding organic matter or fertilizer
- Treating any insect or mite infestations that may be weakening the tree, with insecticide.
If the blight is severe, it may be necessary to remove the tree entirely to prevent the disease from spreading to other trees in the area, especially if you have a large plantation of manuka. It's important to note that some issues may require professional help to resolve, especially if the problem is severe.
In conclusion, Blight is a fungi, that attacks the tree, specifically Manuka. But with early detection and with proper diagnosis and treatment it can allow your manuka trees to thrive once again. Its worthy to note that Kanuka is actually resistant to blight, so if you haven't started planting yet, you could consider Kanuka instead.