Eucalyptus trees can contract several fungal diseases.
Lime sulfur spray is an organically-based substance that is effective in preventing and curing some fungal diseases of eucalyptus and other trees. Many consider it one of the safest products available for this purpose and also for controlling scale insects, mites, boring insects and soft-bodied insects such as aphids.
Identification
Hundreds of species of eucalyptus trees exist. They belong to the myrtle plant family and range in size from low shrubs to towering trees. All species are evergreens that grow quickly and are adaptable to a wide range of soils and environmental conditions. The blue gum tree is a eucalyptus that is native to Australia, but other species occur in other countries. Humans have introduced eucalyptus trees to many areas.
Fungal Diseases of Eucalyptus Trees
Eucalyptus trees can become the victims of numerous plant diseases. The fungal diseases they sometimes get include anthracnose; powdery mildew; leaf spot diseases such as tar spots; Armillaria root rot (also called oak root fungus or shoestring disease); some fungal cankers; Phytophthora fungal diseases such as collar, foot, root and crown rot; wood decay, and heart rot. Symptoms of these various diseases vary: if your eucalyptus tree exhibits suspicious symptoms, consult your county extension agent.
Lime Sulfur Effectiveness and Use
Lime sulfur is effective against the following plant diseases: brown rot, rust, powdery mildew, blight, peach leaf curl, leaf spot and black spot. Although it will not prevent or cure all eucalyptus diseases, it is helpful against the ones listed here. When you spray with lime sulfur, thoroughly cover all foliage of your eucalyptus tree. You might need a ladder or special spray equipment to reach high branches.
Cautions
When you spray with lime sulfur, follow label instructions. Do not use it on plants or turf grass intended for sale or for seed production. Do not spray when the temperature is higher than 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Do not spray lime sulfur at the same time you use horticultural oil; wait two weeks after spraying before you use oil. Spray against the wind so it doesn't get on your skin or into your eyes. Lime sulfur spray can discolor concrete or surfaces painted white.
Tags: fungal diseases, lime sulfur, diseases such, eucalyptus tree, Eucalyptus trees