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Zinnis leaf discoloration #757454

Asked June 21, 2021, 12:31 PM EDT

I'm reading that this is likely a fungal issue. Can I spray copper fungicide vs tearing out all infected plants from my 6'x2' planter box?

Clackamas County Oregon

Expert Response

Thank you for your question, Linda.  Since there are six common zinnia diseases in this region, we cannot recommend a treatment without first identifying the pest.   https://pnwhandbooks.org/plantdisease/host-and-disease-descriptions?title=zinnia

Some diseases are fungal; others are bacterial.  Treatment differs for each.  Could you please send a clear, closeup photo of the tops and undersides of the leaves, as well as a photo of an entire plant?  Thank you for more information!

An Ask Extension Expert Replied June 21, 2021, 4:31 PM EDT

Here are some photos you suggested I send to you. 

The Question Asker Replied June 21, 2021, 8:55 PM EDT

Thank you for the photos.  Since the symptoms are not consistent with diseases, I asked OSU's top plant pathologist to look at them.  His opinion is that these appear to be suffering from sunburn and/or insufficient water.  Are they in direct sun?  Have you been monitoring soil moisture and watering frequently?  Remove the leaves, but don't treat with anything.  Good luck!

An Ask Extension Expert Replied June 22, 2021, 10:50 AM EDT
Thank you, and yes, they are in direct sun all day...very hot reflection against asphalt.  Maybe I'll move the planter box!  Yes, I indeed did think about sunburn!

On Tue, Jun 22, 2021, 7:50 AM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied June 22, 2021, 12:46 PM EDT

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