Vegetable garden pests and diseases: spot and prevent them
Prevention is the best defence: rotate crops, space plants well, keep foliage dry and check often. Many fungal and fungus-like diseases are favoured by wet leaves, so the way you water matters as much as anything. At the first symptom, remove the affected parts and get an expert to confirm what it is.
The basics
Rotate crops so the same family doesn't go back in the same spot each year. Leave enough room between plants for air to move. Water the soil rather than the leaves, ideally in the morning, so the foliage stays dry. Walk the rows often and pull off diseased leaves as soon as you see them.
In the app
The photo check lets you snap a plant and get an indication of its health. It is only an indication, not a firm diagnosis: for serious cases, ask a professional.
Guides in this section
Frequently asked questions
Can I use home-made sprays?
Check reliable sources before using any product, and always follow the label. Many universities advise against spraying home gardens when a disease is uncommon.
Why is water on leaves a problem?
Many pathogens need moisture on the leaf to infect it. Keep the foliage dry and the risk drops.
Is the photo check reliable?
It helps you get your bearings, but it doesn't replace an expert's eye.