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Rhubarb disease at First Presbyterian of South St. Paul Community Garden #794423

Asked June 06, 2022, 9:16 AM EDT

It looks like the stems are rotting at the base. There are lots of yellow leaves laying on the ground. Most of the plants are affected. Last year the plants had thin stems. The stems are thin this year too. I checked the extension site and reviewed diseases. We suspect Ascochyta rhei and Ramularia rhei and or a viral disease. What can we do?

Dakota County Minnesota

Expert Response

Thanks for your question. The yellow leaves and stalks rotting near the soil make me wonder if the soil is too wet. Excess moisture supports growth of fungi that can weaken and kill the plant. Remove affected leaves, stalks and plants (do not compost or use this plant material as mulch, in order to avoid reintroducing the fungi), and be careful not to overwater. If the plants are in clay soil or if the soil isn't draining well, try amending it with finished organic compost or move the plants to another location with well draining soil. Good luck!

Ellen Tveit Replied June 06, 2022, 4:52 PM EDT

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