Question 1

How do I tell the difference between a fungal and bacterial disease on my plant?

Accepted Answer

Fungal diseases usually show visible growth on the surface — powdery coatings, fuzzy mold, or rusty pustules. Bacterial diseases produce water-soaked lesions, angular spots that follow leaf veins, and sometimes a foul smell. If you see surface growth, it is almost always fungal.

Question 2

Can I save a plant that has a viral disease like mosaic or leaf curl?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, no. There is no cure for viral plant diseases. Remove and destroy the infected plant immediately to prevent it from spreading to healthy plants through insects like aphids and whiteflies.

Question 3

Why do my plants get more diseases during Mumbai's monsoon season?

Accepted Answer

Mumbai's monsoon brings sustained high humidity, warm temperatures, and prolonged leaf wetness — ideal conditions for fungal diseases like powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot. Move plants under partial shelter and avoid wetting foliage.

Question 4

What is the first thing I should do when I notice disease symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Isolate the plant immediately. Move it away from other plants, then inspect it closely — check leaf undersides, stems, and soil. Identify the disease type before treating. Rushing to spray without diagnosis often makes things worse.

Question 5

Is neem oil effective against all plant diseases?

Accepted Answer

Neem oil works well against many fungal diseases like powdery mildew, leaf spot, and rust. It also deters pest vectors. However, it cannot cure bacterial or viral infections. For bacterial problems, copper-based sprays are more appropriate.

Question 6

How often should I inspect my plants for signs of disease?

Accepted Answer

Check your plants every 2–3 days, especially during monsoon and post-monsoon months. Focus on leaf undersides, new growth, soil surface, and stem bases. Early detection is the single biggest factor in successful treatment.

Disease Identification for Home Gardeners: Spot Fungal, Bacterial & Viral Problems Early

Disease Identification for Home Gardeners: Spot Fungal, Bacterial & Viral Problems Early