Plant disease detection

Horticulturists and farmers aim to keep their plants healthy and free from pathogens and pests to maximise crop yield and maintain the appearance of their plants. They have become skilled at detecting signs of disease and nutrient deficiencies in plants.

Common signs of plant diseases and deficiencies include:

• Stunted growth: This may be caused by pathogens like rose black spot or tobacco mosaic virus, or by nitrate deficiency.

• Spots on leaves: Often a sign of infections like rose black spot.

• Discolouration: Conditions like chlorosis (yellowing of leaves) can be caused by tobacco mosaic virus or magnesium deficiency.

• Areas of decay or rot.

• Growths or tumours on plant tissue.

• Malformed stems or leaves: These may be misshapen or smaller than usual.

• Presence of pests: Some pests, like aphids, are visible on plants and can spread diseases.

Gardeners and farmers use their knowledge and skills to prevent, identify, and treat plant diseases. There are several methods to identify specific diseases affecting plants:

1. Consulting gardening manuals or websites: These resources provide information on symptoms and treatments for various plant diseases.

2. Laboratory testing: Infected plants can be sent to a lab to accurately identify the pathogen.

3. Testing kits with monoclonal antibodies: These kits can detect specific pathogens, providing a quick and reliable diagnosis.

This knowledge helps in managing gardens, allotments, and fields of crops effectively.