Disease Directory

    Herbicide Injury

    Herbicide exposure (chemical injury)

    Other
    Leaves
    Stems
    Fruit
    Whole Plant

    Overview

    Damage to non-target plants from herbicide exposure through drift, volatilization, contaminated mulch or compost, or root uptake. Symptoms vary widely depending on the herbicide type.

    Symptoms

    Leaf curling, cupping, and distortion (growth regulator herbicides). Yellowing or bleaching (photosynthesis inhibitors). Brown leaf margins (contact herbicides). Stunted growth. Abnormal fruit development. Symptoms may mimic viral diseases.

    Environmental Conditions

    Variable

    Prevention

    Apply herbicides carefully to avoid drift. Do not spray on windy days. Use appropriate nozzles and pressure. Avoid contaminated mulch or compost (aminopyralid). Read labels carefully.

    Management

    Remove source of contamination. Water plants well to dilute soil-applied herbicides. Most plants recover if exposure is mild. Activated charcoal can bind some herbicides in soil. Time and patience.