Managing Leatherleaf Fern Anthracnose: When to Start Over

A leatherleaf fern grower (Ima) has battled diseases since 2009. Labs identified Colletotrichum, Cylindrocladium, Corynespora cassiicola, and Fusarium spp. Treatments (cropping, bactericides, fungicides, biologicals, synthetics) failed. Symptoms match Fern Distortion Syndrome (red vein).

Core Diagnosis

The primary problem is almost certainly Fern Anthracnose caused by Colletotrichum. The other pathogens are secondary invaders on damaged tissue.

Reality Check

There is no foolproof eradication. Many growers opt to start over with clean stock and a clean field.

Key Resource

University of Florida Bulletin 900: Comprehensive Anthracnose Guide. The expert knows the authors and can facilitate direct contact.