A plant disease caused by pathogenic fungi that infect leaves, stems, roots, flowers, or fruit, often spreading through airborne spores or water.
Fungi are naturally present in most garden environments, but some species can infect plants and cause disease. These fungi reproduce by releasing microscopic spores that spread through wind, rain splash, irrigation water, or contaminated tools.
Symptoms vary depending on the fungus and the plant affected. Common signs include leaf spots, wilting, discoloration, powdery coatings, rotting tissue, or premature leaf drop.
Many fungal diseases become more severe when plants remain wet for long periods or when air circulation is poor.
Fungal diseases are among the most common plant health problems in gardens. Understanding how fungal diseases spread helps gardeners prevent outbreaks through proper watering, sanitation, plant spacing, and the selection of resistant varieties.