Crispy, Curled Gazania Leaves: Fungal Rust, Not Water Issues

Gazania leaves turning brown on top, silver underneath, crispy and curling indicate fungal rust—not overwatering. The disease spreads via water splash on infected leaves, especially in humid conditions. Close spacing and overhead watering accelerate it.

Action Plan

1. Remove and trash (not compost) severely infected plants.
2. On lightly infected plants, strip all spotted leaves.
3. Spray remaining foliage with fungicide (copper, mancozeb, or garlic spray) every few days.
4. Water only at soil level, early morning.
5. Space plants for airflow; avoid wetting leaves.

Garlic spray: roast a head, blend with 2 cups water, strain, spray. Smell fades in an hour. Rust won't kill gazanias outright but will ruin appearance and spread. Early, aggressive management saves the planting.