Asparagus Rust

Under certain conditions asparagus rust can threaten an asparagus crop, attacking and weakening the plant.

The disease shows itself as orange to reddish blotches along the stems and foliage of the asparagus. Read on to learn more about it and about some of the measures you can take to reduce its incidence.

Figure: asparagus rust

Asparagus rust is a disease caused by the fungus Puccinia asparagi.

Figure: the fungus Puccinia asparagi

The disease affects the above-ground parts of the asparagus, forming circular, orange-coloured pustules with a purulent appearance on the foliage and stems.

Figure: symptoms on the stems

The optimum conditions for the fungus to develop are spells of high humidity alternating with temperatures above 15⁰C, which usually coincide with the start of spring.

An attack by this fungus weakens the plant and its foliage, resulting in a reduced photosynthetic capacity.

Have you seen this disease in your asparagus beds?

Tell us in the comments!