Rhubarb with Septoria fungus (red spots on leaves) - Ask Extension
Rhubarb Leafs have red spots on them which I am guessing is septoria fungus?
If so, should I cut off leaves so fungus doesn’t spread elsewhere?
W...
Knowledgebase
Rhubarb with Septoria fungus (red spots on leaves) #872266
Asked June 09, 2024, 11:32 AM EDT
Rhubarb Leafs have red spots on them which I am guessing is septoria fungus?
If so, should I cut off leaves so fungus doesn’t spread elsewhere?
Will this expose plant to insect issues?
Also, is it safe to eat the stalks?
Health of plants… just leave the stalks to help plant recoup or is this leaving plants exposed to insects.
Lots of questions, not sure what to do.
*cleaning out all other plants & grass surrounding rhubarb to get better air flow today.
Your thoughts on how to handle?
Hennepin County Minnesota
Expert Response
It does sound like a fungal disease, likely because of the wet weather we have been experiencing. I don't see septoria fungus listed for rhubarb. I wonder if it is Ramularia rhei a common leaf disease for rhubarb. Good air flow will help. You can eat stalks from leaves with the spots. The recommendation is to remove all of those leaves after the first frost in the fall. Here is a link from University of No. Dakota State: https://www.ndsu.edu/agriculture/sites/default/files/2024-05/h61.pdf
Thanks for the question.
Paul -Master Gardener volunteer
