Nathan, Out here in the Hinterlands (Tri-Cities) of Washington state, we generally don't get as much fungi as our colleagues on the west side of the state. However, our overhead watering (irrigation) allows them to be a definite problem if one ignores the water source. I try to operate on semi to full xeric conditions to reduce the problem. However, I often spray elemental sulfur with a dispersant when fungi appear. I think the alternatives are worth a try, but I am not a vinegar fan. Unfortunately, there are all types of fungal diseases other than powdery mildew that pop up on occasion including leaf spots, rusts, and smut. Then, one might have to go for a commercial product. I try to avoid them by controlling the conditions that promote the fungi. Luckily, we can do that since our humidity generally runs 25-35% in the summer. Regardless, I sure missed treating my penstemon in time.
Dave Nelson Richland, Washington _____ From: [email protected] [mailto:[email protected]] On Behalf Of Nathan Miller Sent: Sunday, January 23, 2011 9:34 AM To: the Electronic Rock Garden Society postings copyright byauthors.Alpine-L Subject: Re: [Alpine-l] Penstemon Propagation with Cuttings >Peroxide and vinegar will kill any mold or fungus. Cinnamon and cloves will give a more lasting protection from fungus and oomycete. Be careful with the vinegar, though. Acetic acid is also a defoliant and is used in some herbicides. I use it myself and it does indeed kill plant cells, so if you try it as a fungicide, you'll want to dilute it. You might try ammonia instead. It at least kills slugs on contact, but won't harm plants. -Nathan Miller Newberg, OR
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