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Smoke bush fungus? #868689

Asked May 16, 2024, 11:27 AM EDT

Cincinnati, Ohio. My smoke bush has raised furry, brown, not circular/no pattern to the shape I do not think it is verticillium wilt since that looks flat. I will attach 2 photos any help is appreciated. I would love to save my gorgeous bush!

Hamilton County Ohio

Expert Response

i think you can thank the wet spring and all the rainfall. My suggestion is to prune off the leaves and then apply a fungicide to the plant. Copper would be OK. Neem oil would also work. You can alternate between sprays. We need it to STOP raining for awhile. I am flooded also. When you pick off the bad leaves bag them and dispose, do not compost these bad boys. Good luck. Next year attack it early before it gets a foot hold. 
An Ask Extension Expert Replied May 17, 2024, 6:59 PM EDT

Thank you so much for confirming this. I was thinking it was because of all the rain. The fungus is so bad it is really irritating my eyes. I'll have to wear goggles and gloves when I remove them.

The Question Asker Replied May 18, 2024, 12:27 AM EDT

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