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Sick Rhubarb Plant #872435

Asked June 10, 2024, 2:09 PM EDT

Hi, Our rhubarb plant's leaves are curling and have brown and yellow spots - see photo. We live in Lakewood, OH 44107. The "Picture This" plant app on my phone is saying "temperature too high" and "disease infected," and to use a fungicide. I have removed most of the affected leaves and any that have dropped. The new shoots first appear healthy, but within a day or so wilt. There is another rhubarb plant next to the sick one, and it looks much healther, although it looks like something is eating the leaves, although I have not seen any insects on the underside of the leaves. We have had this plant for over 40 years, and it has never really had any problems, especially this one. Thanks for your help.

Cuyahoga County Ohio

Expert Response

The most common cause of curling, yellowing or wilting leaves is over or underwatering. If the plant was already vulnerable due to watering issues it may be more susceptible to damage from insects, thus introducing disease. If the problem does not resolve with changes to watering frequency, you may consider sending in a tissue sample to a plant and pest diagnostic lab. I will attach a link to OSU's plant and pest diagnostic lab as well as a rhubarb factsheet. Thank you for reaching out.

https://ppdc.osu.edu/

https://ohioline.osu.edu/factsheet/hyg-1631

An Ask Extension Expert Replied June 28, 2024, 12:14 AM EDT

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