Bacterial disease

Bell Pepper Bacterial Spot

A bacterial disease that causes small dark spots on pepper leaves and raised, scabby spots on the fruit.

Symptoms

• Small, water-soaked spots that turn brown, often with a yellow halo
• Leaves yellowing and dropping
• Raised, scabby spots on the fruit

What causes it

The bacteria come in on infected seed or transplants and spread by splashing water in warm, wet weather.

What you can do

1. Start with certified, disease-free seed and transplants.
2. Water the soil, not the leaves, and water in the morning so any splashes dry quickly.
3. Remove and bin badly infected plants and debris.
4. Do not grow the same crop in the same spot next year; rotate beds for two to three years.
5. Copper sprays can slow the spread; follow the label.

General guidance only, not a diagnosis. Check product labels and local rules before using any treatment, and ask a horticultural specialist if a valuable plant is struggling. See the disclaimer.