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Azalea attacked by moss and fungus #866841

Asked May 02, 2024, 11:18 PM EDT

I have an azalea that appear to be attacked by fungus and moss (2 pictures attached). I do not know what to do about it. I'd appreciate your expert advice. I have no idea what's suddenly causing this. Thanks in advance.

Washington County Oregon

Expert Response

Hi,

I am wondering if you can help. Thanks,

Susan

On May 2, 2024, at 8:18 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:


Dear Susan,

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YOUR QUESTION #0136762:

Azalea attacked by moss and fungus


I have an azalea that appear to be attacked by fungus and moss (2 pictures attached). I do not know what to do about it. I'd appreciate your expert advice. I have no idea what's suddenly causing this. Thanks in advance.

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The Question Asker Replied May 07, 2024, 2:16 AM EDT
Hi Susan and thanks for your question and picture of your azalea with moss and dead brown flowers. First, let me say that the moss and lichen I see in the picture do not hurt the plant. They have no roots and just use the plant as a resting place. That being said, the amount of moss may indicate damp conditions which could help cause the problem with the flowers.

The flowers appear to have Ovulina Petal Blight where the entire petals become slimy and limp. Infected areas of flowers soon become tan or light brown; eventually entire flowers turn prematurely brown. Infected flowers may last only 2 to 3 days after they are fully opened. Those on lower limbs usually are infected first. Nearly all flowers on a plant become infected when disease conditions are optimum, which they have been with our wet, wet, weather.

You will need to do the following to control the disease:

  • Remove and destroy infected flowers. The practice of "deadheading" can be helpful.
  • Remove and destroy floral debris from the base of plants . Carefully remove 1 inch of the mulch or soil from around base of plants. Replace with fresh, clean mulch.
  • Avoid overhead irrigation.
  • Pruning will help improve air circulation and drying conditions. Thin dense plantings and/or remove
    lower branches where first infections are likely to occur.
There are some chemical fungicides available but they are not very effective in the long run. If you do the above recommended steps and we have better weather next spring, it should take care of the problem.

Best of luck!
Rhonda Frick-Wright Replied May 08, 2024, 9:43 PM EDT
Thank you for your reply and the advice. I will try to follow it. I am glad that the moss and fungus are not killers.

Susan

On May 8, 2024, at 6:43 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

The Question Asker Replied May 08, 2024, 9:52 PM EDT

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