Boxwood disease found in Jackson and Macon
A serious boxwood disease known as boxwood blight, Calonectria pseudonaviculata, has been confirmed on the Highlands Plateau in Macon and Jackson counties, and homeowners are being encouraged to remove diseased plants.
The disease causes leaf loss and decline of boxwoods, and once introduced it’s difficult and costly to control. Spores can be spread through contaminated plant material, garden tools or clothing. The telltale signs of infection include brown leaf spots, black streaks on green twigs and leaf drop starting at the bottom of the plant.
Because the disease can’t be effectively controlled once underway, removal of diseased plants is recommended. However, the pathogen will survive in the soil for five to six years after plant removal.
For comprehensive recommendations, visit www.ext.vt.edu/topics/agriculture/commercial-horticulture/boxwood-blight/ or your local Cooperative Extension Center.
