Bacterial Diseases

, Most Common: Bacterial Leaf Spot, Soft Rot (Erwinia)

Bacterial infections often move faster than fungal ones and are frequently characterized by "water-soaked" spots that look greasy or translucent. As the bacteria multiply, they produce enzymes that turn plant tissue into a foul-smelling, slimy mush. They enter through wounds (from pruning or pests) or natural openings and rapidly destroy cell walls, leading to the "melting" of leaves or stems within days.

Variants

Variants: Leaf Spot vs. Soft Rot

  • Bacterial Leaf Spot: Localized to foliage; causes dark, angular spots that often follow the veins of the leaf.
  • Soft Rot: Attacks the main stem, rhizome, or crown. This is the "death sentence" variant that causes the entire base of the plant to turn into slime.

Rehabilitation Instructions

  • Amputation: Bacteria move through the plant's fluids. Immediately cut off infected leaves or stems at least two inches below the visible damage. Sterilize your shears with alcohol between every single cut.
  • Dry Treatment: Keep the foliage bone-dry. Bacteria require water films to move and spread.
  • Copper Bactericide: While difficult to "cure," copper-based sprays can help protect healthy leaves from becoming infected by splashing bacteria.
  • Discard: If the rot has reached the main crown or stem (Soft Rot variant), it is safest to discard the plant to prevent the bacteria from spreading to your entire collection.

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