KY Plant Disease

09/04/2026

Neopestalotiopsis disease (also referred to as Neopest or Neo-P) is caused by a fungus that can infect both cuttings and mature plants. Symptoms can range from leaf spots to crown and root rots to fruit infections. The pathogen overwinters in debris and as melanized spores in soil. Once introduced to fields, it can survive 3 to 5 years.

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Neopestalotiopsis disease (also referred to as Neopest or Neo-P) is caused by a fungus that can infect both cuttings and mature plants. Symptoms can range from leaf spots (Figure 1) to crown and ro…

09/01/2026

Crop specific spray schedules are now available to assist growers in managing the diseases they are most likely to encounter. These publications are available for blueberry, bramble, and strawberry, with versions available for field and high tunnel production, as well as conventional and organic systems.
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Numerous plant pathogens can cause disease in commercial berry production, resulting in plant damage and yield loss. Applications of fungicides and bactericides are often necessary to limit the imp…

08/31/2026

While fruit rots have a variety of causes, the most common fungal fruit rot of apple in Kentucky is bitter rot. The disease results in rotten, inedible fruit. Fungicides are available for management; however, sanitation is critical for disease prevention.
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While fruit rots have a variety of causes, the most common fungal fruit rot of apple in Kentucky is bitter rot. The disease results in rotten, inedible fruit. Fungicides are available for managemen…

08/28/2026

Cucurbit downy mildew is one of the most economically important diseases of cucurbits in Kentucky. The movement of cucurbit downy mildew is monitored on the Cucurbit Downy Mildew Forecasting page of the IPM pipe website. Cucurbit growers can sign up for free e-mail or text alerts to be updated on the proximity of downy mildew. https://buff.ly/IfGAKql

Cucurbit downy mildew is one of the most economically important diseases of cucurbits in Kentucky. The movement of cucurbit downy mildew is monitored on the Cucurbit Downy Mildew Forecasting page o…

08/27/2026

What do you know about organic disease management products? Do you want to learn more? Check out our publication "Organic Disease Management Guide for Specialty Crop Production" at https://plantpathology.mgcafe.uky.edu/sites/plantpathology.ca.uky.edu/files/PPFS-GEN-28-FF.pdf.

08/26/2026

Are you interested in commercial blueberry production? Our University of Kentucky Fruit Extension colleagues along with several other groups will be hosting the Berries in the Bluegrass Field Day. Mark you calendars and register now!

Want to learn techniques and strategies for successful on-farm blueberry production?
Join the University of Kentucky Department of Horticulture, Community Farm Alliance, Clark County Extension, & the Kentucky Horticulture Council for our Berries in the Bluegrass Field Day at Grow with Mo at Four Gardens Farm in Clark County on September 21st.
Come learn what it takes to install a new blueberry planting. From site selection & bed prep to irrigation installation & care for new plantings, you’ll walk away with a game plan for the season to come. More info in the flyer and on the registration page.
Register here: https://secure.everyaction.com/ZFO0tarbVE64JmpNdmMWMg2

08/10/2026

A number of plant disease resources are now available in Spanish. These include many factsheets for important diseases of specialty crops, as well as common disease management practices. All vegetable scouting guides are also available in Spanish. A complete list of resources in Spanish is available through the Plant Pathology Extension Publication webpage under the heading Publicaciones en Español. https://buff.ly/3ytiuto

A number of plant disease resources are now available in Spanish. These include many factsheets for important diseases of specialty crops, as well as common disease management practices. All vegeta…

08/07/2026

The IPM Scouting Guide publications for vegetable crops are valuable resources for growers. This information can also be easily accessed through the Veggie Scout Website. Be sure to check out this valuable resource!
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The IPM Scouting Guide publications for vegetable crops are valuable resources for growers. This information can also be easily accessed through the Veggie Scout Website. Be sure to bookmark this w…

08/06/2026

Fusarium wilts are common in vegetables. Symptoms develop when the fungus obstructs openings in vascular tissue (xylem), limiting the plant’s ability to move water and nutrients. Infections ultimately result in plant death. Preventative practices and fungicides can reduce damage and limit yield loss. https://buff.ly/b78GZg1

Fusarium wilts are common in vegetables grown in commercial fields, greenhouses, high tunnels, and backyard gardens. Tomato, peppers, eggplant, cucumber, watermelon, and cantaloupe are susceptible …

08/05/2026

Cucurbit crops (cucumber, squash, watermelon, cantaloupe) may be affected by gummy stem blight or black rot. Cantaloupe, watermelon, and cucumber are often the most at-risk for disease. Leaves, stems, vines, and fruit may be affected by this fungal disease. Damage to plants and fruit may result in yield loss. Preventative practices and fungicides can help to reduce losses.
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Cucurbit crops (cucumber, squash, watermelon, cantaloupe) may be affected by gummy stem blight or black rot. Cantaloupe, watermelon, and cucumber are often the most at-risk for disease. Leaves, ste…