Cultural control of rusts

Rusts are a large group of fungal diseases affecting plant parts above ground. Most rust species are specific to a particular plant host. The controls listed here are general and can apply to most rust infections. For more specific, targeted control, see the rust pages here on Shoot for individual host plants including birch rust, chrysanthemum white rust, anemone rust, mint rust, leek rust, pear rust, iris rust, and rose rust.

To control rust:

- Pick off and destroy infected leaves promptly. This is only useful if only a small number of leaves are damaged.

- Remove and destroy heavily infested plants. Do not add this material to compost heaps or bins.

- Avoid excess nitrogen in fertilisers. The resulting soft, lush growth is more susceptible to rust.

- Allow adequate space around plants for good air circulation.

- Remove weeds since they harbour rust.

- Remove all dead and diseased plant material in autumn. Do not compost this material.

- If possible, plant rust-resistant cultivars.