Organic Fungus Control: Identification, Prevention & Homemade Sprays

Fungi are the most common plant pathogens. Overwatering and poor drainage create the wet conditions they love.

Common Fungal Diseases

• Damping-off: Kills seedlings pre/post emergence.
• Root rot: Stunts/wilts older plants.
• Club root: Swollen roots on brassicas.
• Blights: Tomato leaf/fruit damage.
• Mildews: Downy (rapid kill) or powdery (poor growth).
• Rusts: Orange/white spots, reduced yields.
• Leaf spots: Various fungi.

Prevention Strategies

• Select resistant varieties for your area.
• Sanitize tools (alcohol/bleach) after treating infected plants.
• Destroy diseased leaves—don't compost.

Fungi spread via spores on wind, water, animals, gardeners.

Kitchen-Cupboard Organic Fungicides

Basic Baking Soda Spray

2 Tbsp baking soda + 1 gal water + 1 tsp vegetable oil (sticker). Spray problem areas.

Soda Spray for Rust

2 Tbsp baking soda + 1 gal water + 6 Tbsp vegetable oil + 2 Tbsp kelp extract.

Garlic Spray (Broad-Spectrum)

1 bulb garlic + 1 qt water. Crush, boil, cool, strain, spray. Fights mildew, mold, rust; repels some insects.

Apple Cider Vinegar Spray

3 Tbsp vinegar + 1 gal water. Morning application so plants dry by evening. Effective on rose black spot.

These safe, simple sprays keep plants healthy without harsh chemicals.