Camellia Petal Blight: Effective Fungicides Since Captan Is Gone

Camellia flower and petal blight (caused by Ciborinia camelliae) turns blossoms brown and mushy. With Captan off the market, two reliable alternatives remain:

Recommended Fungicides

• Daconil (chlorothalonil) – broad-spectrum, preventive.
• Spectro 90 (chlorothalonil + thiophanate-methyl) – dual mode of action, stronger protection.

Application Schedule

1. First spray at first flower break (when buds show color).
2. Second spray 2 weeks later.
3. Apply every 2 weeks during bloom if wet weather persists.

Critical Cultural Practice

Remove and destroy all fallen petals. They harbor overwintering sclerotia (survival structures) that release spores next season. Sanitation reduces inoculum dramatically.

Tips

• Don't exceed label rates—can burn petals.
• Spray early morning for best coverage and drying.
• Rotate chemistries if using annually to prevent resistance.

Consistent prevention + sanitation = clean blooms year after year.