Common Leaf Spot

Ramularia grevilleana

4 host plants

Last updated

Data Maturity Structured

This profile synthesizes data from multiple published sources. Expert field review is in progress.

Common leaf spot creates brown spots on foliage with concentric rings and light-colored centers. You see spotting develop in wet spring weather. The fungus spreads via water splash and wind. Manage through removing infected leaves, improving air circulation, and fungicide use.

Removing foliage after harvest reduces inoculum in the field. Mow leaves of June-bearing plants 0.5 inch above the crown after harvest.

Quick Reference

Causal Agent
Ramularia grevilleana
Host Plants
4
Spread
Rain-splash dispersal of conidia from acervuli on infected leaves.
Favorable Conditions
Spring and early summer; cool wet conditions (50-65°F) with 8+ hours continuo...

Management

Vulnerability Window

Spring through early summer (April-June); peak: May-June. Young and mature foliage both susceptible but young tissue preferentially infected.

What Triggers Infection

Spring and early summer; cool wet conditions (50-65°F) with 8+ hours continuous leaf wetness (Ramularia grevilleana on Fragaria). Rain-splash dispersal.

Cultural Controls

  • Removing foliage after harvest reduces inoculum in the field.
  • Mow leaves of June-bearing plants 0.5 inch above the crown after harvest.
  • Do not mow everbearing or day-neutral types.
  • Leaf spot can still be a problem after renovation unless supplemented with chemical protection.
  • Use drip irrigation if possible.
  • When using overhead irrigation, shorten sets and water at times that promote rapid drying of the foliage.

Host Plants (4)