Fungal Leaf Spots on Basil in Colombia

A Colombian herb gardener's blooming basil developed leaf spots. The photo shows symptoms typical of three fungal pathogens: Cercospora, Alternaria, and Colletotrichum species.

Management Strategies

• Water at the base only—never wet foliage.
• Remove and dispose of diseased leaves at first sign.
• For minor infections, spray weekly with potassium bicarbonate fungicide (e.g., Bonide Remedy, GreenCure). Check local availability in Colombia.

High altitude may create temperate conditions favoring these fungi.

Basil with disease