Botrytis Gray Mold
Botrytis cinerea
Overview
A ubiquitous fungal disease that attacks flowers, fruits, leaves, and stems, producing characteristic fuzzy gray mold. It is especially damaging in cool, humid conditions and on overripe or damaged tissue.
Symptoms
Fuzzy gray-brown mold on flowers, fruit, leaves, and stems. Water-soaked lesions that quickly become covered with gray sporulation. Flower petals turn brown and papery. Fruit develops soft, watery rot.
Environmental Conditions
Cool
Prevention
Ensure excellent air circulation. Avoid overhead watering. Remove dead flowers and plant debris promptly. Space plants adequately. Reduce nitrogen fertilization to avoid lush, susceptible growth.
Management
Remove infected plant parts immediately. Apply biological controls like Bacillus subtilis or Trichoderma. Copper or sulfur sprays can help. Ensure good ventilation in greenhouses. Avoid wounding plants.