Alternaria leaf spot is a common fungal disease that affects a variety of plants, including beetroot. Here are some symptoms of Alternaria leaf spot that you should look out for in beetroot:
- Leaf Lesions: The disease usually starts as small, dark, circular lesions on the leaves. These lesions may have a concentric ring pattern and can vary in size from small spots to larger patches.
- Lesion Expansion: As the disease progresses, the lesions may enlarge and merge together, forming larger irregularly-shaped spots. The centers of the lesions often become grayish or tan, while the borders remain dark brown or black.
- Leaf Yellowing: The infected leaves may start to turn yellow around the lesions. The yellowing may extend beyond the affected areas, causing a general decline in the plant’s health.
- Leaf Wilting and Defoliation: In severe cases, the infected leaves may wilt, become distorted, and eventually die. This can lead to defoliation, where the plant loses a significant number of its leaves.
- Dark Spore Deposits: On the underside of the infected leaves, you may notice dark fungal spore masses. These spore masses appear as small, raised, and powdery black or dark brown spots. They are often more visible in humid conditions.
- Stem and Petiole Lesions: Alternaria leaf spot can also affect the stems and petioles (leaf stalks) of beetroot plants. Look for dark brown to black lesions on these plant parts.
It’s important to note that these symptoms can vary in appearance depending on the severity of the infection and environmental conditions. If you suspect Alternaria leaf spot in your beetroot plants, it is advisable to consult with a local plant disease specialist or extension service for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment recommendations.
