Plant bacterial disease

Plant bacterial disease is a group of diseases caused by pathogenic bacteria that can affect various parts of plants, including leaves, stems, roots, and fruits. These diseases are one of the most common and destructive problems in agriculture and gardening. Bacterial diseases can reduce the yield of agricultural crops, degrade product quality, and cause the death of individual plants. Due to the wide range of pathogens, the variety of host plants, and the ability of bacteria to survive in the soil and plant debris, bacterial diseases pose a significant threat to crop production. Major causes of bacterial diseases include bacteria such as xanthomonas, pseudomonas, erwinia, and others, each of which causes specific diseases with different symptoms and mechanisms of development.

Understanding the mechanisms of spread, causes, and methods of combating bacterial diseases is an important aspect of successful plant care and disease prevention.

Article goals

The goal of this article is to provide a comprehensive overview of bacterial disease as a plant illness. The reader will learn about the signs and symptoms of the disease, its causes, diagnostic methods, and effective treatment strategies. Additionally, the article offers recommendations for disease prevention and care for infected plants, as well as specialized advice for different types of plants. As a result, plant owners will be able to more effectively manage the health of their green companions and prevent the onset of bacterial disease.

Signs and symptoms of plant diseases

Symptoms of bacterial disease can vary significantly depending on the type of plant, the stage of the disease, and the pathogen. However, there are several common signs that allow for the diagnosis of bacterial disease:

1. Leaf damage:
   • Initially, water-soaked, then brown or black spots appear on the leaves, which rapidly enlarge. These spots often have a yellow halo, which is a characteristic sign of bacterial infection. In some cases, slimy or sticky exudates, containing bacteria, may form on the surface of the spots.
   • Leaves begin to wilt, retaining their shape but losing turgidity. This is due to the disruption of normal vascular tissue function.
2. Stem and shoot damage:
   • Bacterial disease can spread to stems and shoots, leading to soft, water-soaked spots that then darken and become necrotic. Infected stems may lose their strength and break, resulting in partial plant death.
   • In some cases, ulcers or lumps may form on the stems and shoots, which can also secrete sticky fluids that facilitate the spread of infection.
3. Fruit damage:
   • On fruits, especially in crops like tomatoes and apples, bacterial disease manifests as spots that gradually enlarge. Fruits become soft and may develop spots that darken, making them unsuitable for consumption or storage.
4. Exudate formation:
   • Bacteria excrete a sticky liquid called exudate that appears on the surface of infected tissues. These exudates contain large numbers of bacteria, which aids in their spread to other parts of the plant or new plants.
5. General wilting and slowed growth:
   • As bacterial disease spreads throughout the plant, general wilting and weakening occur. The plant loses turgor, its growth slows down, and development ceases, ultimately leading to plant death.

Presence of pests although bacterial disease itself is a bacterial illness, its development can be worsened by the presence of pests such as spider mites or aphids. Pests weaken the plant, making it more susceptible to infections, and can contribute to the spread of bacteria on the plant’s surface.

Etiology and spread

Bacterial diseases are caused by pathogenic bacteria that can enter plants through stomata, mechanical damage to tissues, the root system, or tissues damaged by pests. These microorganisms multiply inside plant tissues, releasing toxic substances and enzymes that disrupt normal cell function and lead to necrosis (death) of tissues.

Main pathogens of bacterial diseases:

1. Xanthomonas spp.:
   • Xanthomonas bacteria cause diseases such as bacterial cancer necrosis, spots, wilting, and other diseases affecting various crops, including tomatoes, potatoes, corn, cabbage, and many others. Xanthomonas contributes to the formation of characteristic exudates (sticky liquids) that help spread the infection.
2. Pseudomonas spp.:
   • Pseudomonas bacteria cause various plant bacterial diseases, including bacterial spots and rot. These bacteria can affect crops like apples, grapes, potatoes, and decorative plants. Pseudomonas also contribute to exudate formation on infected areas, facilitating the spread of the infection.
3. Erwinia spp.:
   • Erwinia bacteria are responsible for diseases such as bacterial rot, bacterial necrosis, and wilting. Erwinia affects many plant species, including potatoes, tomatoes, apples, pears, and peaches. These bacteria can destroy the plant’s vascular system, disrupting water and nutrient circulation.
4. Clavibacter spp.:
   • Clavibacter bacteria cause bacterial cancer, which often affects tomatoes, potatoes, and other crops. This genus of bacteria causes characteristic ulcers and thickening on the stems, leaves, and roots of plants.

Bacterial diseases can be specific (when the pathogen affects only one plant species) or general (when several plant species can be affected by the same pathogen). Bacteria can be spread by rain droplets, wind, insects, and even infected planting material or tools.

Life cycle

The life cycle of bacteria causing bacterial disease includes several stages that contribute to their spread and survival:

1. Penetration into the plant:
   • Infection begins with bacteria entering the plant. This can happen through stomata, tissue damage, mechanical injuries (e.g., during pruning), or through the root system. Infected water, rain droplets, insects, or contaminated tools can also contribute to the spread.
2. Multiplication and spread:
   • After entering the plant tissue, bacteria begin to multiply, penetrating cells and destroying them. This causes exudates to form and accelerates the necrosis process, which spreads throughout the plant. The infection can spread through the plant’s vascular system, aiding its distribution.
3. Exudate formation:
   • During reproduction, bacteria release exudates—sticky liquid substances that contain bacteria and help spread the infection to new parts of the plant or neighboring plants through contact.
4. Tissue death:
   • Once the infection has spread sufficiently, it leads to tissue death in the plant. The bacteria survive in plant debris and soil in the form of cysts or other resistant forms, allowing them to endure adverse conditions and start a new cycle of infection in the next season.
5. Infection spread:
   • Bacterial infections spread through rain droplets, wind, insects, mechanical impact, and even through tools that carry bacteria from one plant to another.

Conditions for disease development

For bacterial disease to develop, certain conditions are required:

1. High humidity:
   • Pathogenic bacteria prefer humid conditions, as water helps the spores germinate and accelerates their spread. Over-watering the soil or high air humidity promotes the development of bacterial diseases.
2. Temperature:
   • The optimal temperature for most bacterial infections is 20-25°c. However, bacterial diseases can also develop at higher temperatures.
3. Poor ventilation:
   • Dense plantings and poor air circulation increase humidity and create favorable conditions for bacteria. Lack of ventilation promotes moisture accumulation and increases the risk of infection.
4. Mechanical damage:
   • Damage to plant tissue (e.g., tears or cracks) creates entry points for bacteria. Pests, such as aphids or mites, can also contribute to the spread of infection.

Impact on plants

Bacterial diseases can cause significant damage to plants, resulting in the following consequences:

1. Slowed growth: infection slows photosynthetic activity, reducing plant growth.
2. Reduced yield: in agricultural crops, bacterial diseases can cause significant yield losses, as plants lose their ability to fully absorb sunlight and nutrients.
3. Deformation and wilting: infected leaves and stems lose their ornamental value, may curl, yellow, and dry out.
4. Weakened immune system: plants affected by bacterial diseases become more susceptible to other diseases and stresses.

Diagnosis of plant diseases

Diagnosing bacterial diseases requires careful attention, as many bacterial disease symptoms can resemble those of other diseases, such as fungal infections or viral diseases. Proper diagnosis allows for accurate identification of the pathogen and the selection of effective treatment and prevention methods.

1. Visual symptoms of bacterial disease

The primary method of diagnosing bacterial diseases is through a careful examination of the plant for characteristic disease signs. While symptoms may vary depending on the type of bacteria and plant, they share several common features.

Main visual signs of bacterial disease:

• Leaf spots: the appearance of dark, water-soaked spots on leaves, which may gradually increase in size. The spots often start at the edges of the leaf and can merge, forming necrotic areas.
• Rotting: affected tissues often show signs of rot, such as wet spots or areas emitting an unpleasant odor, especially on stems and fruits.
• Yellowing and wilting: yellowing of tissues, especially around the spots, and general weakness of the plant. Leaves may begin to curl and fall off.
• Exudate formation: some affected areas may show droplets of liquid (exudate), which is a characteristic sign of bacterial infections.
• Tissue deformation: leaves, stems, or fruits may change shape, becoming brittle or fragile, as a result of bacterial enzymes breaking down the cell walls.
• Formation of ulcers and cavities: particularly on stems and roots, ulcers or cavities may form, from which mucus or fluid exudes.

2. Microscopy

To confirm the diagnosis of bacterial disease and determine the species of the pathogen, a microscopic examination of plant tissue is performed.

What to look for under the microscope:

• Bacterial colonies: on cross-sections of affected tissues, characteristic bacterial colonies can be identified. They often appear in intercellular spaces or plant tissues.
• Bacterial cells: microscopy can reveal individual bacterial cells or groups of bacteria, which typically have rod or spherical shapes.
• Cell destruction: under the microscope, you can observe the destruction of cell walls due to bacterial enzymes.

3. Laboratory methods

More specialized laboratory methods are used for accurate diagnosis of bacterial diseases, enabling precise identification of the bacterium and confirming the diagnosis.

3.1. Culture on nutrient media

Samples from affected plant tissues can be cultured on nutrient media to promote bacterial growth. This method allows for the isolation and cultivation of bacteria, which is crucial for further identification.

• Samples can be taken from various parts of the plant: leaves, stems, roots, fruits, where symptoms are most pronounced.
• Nutrient media such as agar with antibiotics to prevent the growth of other microorganisms are used.

3.2. PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction)

PCR is used to detect the dna of bacteria, even in the early stages of the disease. PCR can identify the specific species of bacteria causing the disease, helping avoid errors that may occur during visual inspection.

• PCR samples are taken from affected plant tissues and analyzed for specific genes associated with bacterial pathogens.

3.3. Immunochemical methods

Immunochemical methods, such as elisa (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay), are used to identify bacterial antigens, which helps in confirming the diagnosis.

• These tests can be used for rapid identification of bacteria at the early stages of the disease.

4. Differential diagnosis

Since bacterial disease symptoms may resemble those of other diseases, such as fungal and viral infections, differential diagnosis is necessary to accurately identify the pathogen and differentiate bacterial diseases from other types of pathogens.

Similar diseases:

• Fungal diseases: many fungal diseases, such as fusarium wilt or downy mildew, cause yellowing and wilting similar to bacterial necrosis, but they typically appear in more specific areas and do not cause characteristic exudate formation.
• Viral infections: some viral diseases may also cause spots and wilting, but they do not exhibit liquid exudation, unlike bacterial diseases.

5. Use of culture and biological tests

To precisely identify bacteria and their pathogenicity, additional culture and biological tests are performed. These tests include growing bacterial cultures on nutrient media and assessing their sensitivity to different antibiotics.

Diagnosis of bacterial diseases involves several stages, including visual inspection, microscopy, laboratory methods (such as culture on nutrient media, pcr, and immunological tests), as well as differential diagnosis. These methods allow

For accurate identification of the pathogen, which is essential for selecting effective treatment and prevention methods.

Treatment of bacterial diseases in plants

Treatment of bacterial diseases in plants involves the use of chemical and biological agents, agronomic measures, as well as proper management of growing conditions. The main goal of treatment is to stop the spread of infection, minimize damage to the plant, and prevent further infections. It is important to understand that bacterial diseases can lead to significant losses, especially if the disease is not detected at an early stage.

1. Removal of affected plant parts

One of the first steps in treating bacterial diseases is to remove the infected parts of the plant. This helps limit the spread of bacteria and reduce the number of pathogens on the plant.

Steps for removal:

• Pruning infected parts: cut off leaves, stems, flowers, and fruits that show signs of bacterial necrosis (dark, water-soaked spots, ulcers, or rot).
• Removing infected roots: if the root system is affected, carefully extract the plant from the soil and remove the infected roots.
• Disposal of plant debris: all infected plant parts should be disposed of (burned or thrown away in closed containers) to prevent the spread of infection. Do not compost infected tissues.

2. Use of antibiotics and fungicides

Antibiotics and fungicides are often used to combat bacterial diseases. Antibiotics help destroy bacteria, while fungicides can be useful in preventing secondary fungal infections, which often develop in weakened plants.

2.1. Antibiotics:

• Antibiotics such as oxytetracycline, streptomycin, and ampicillin are used to eliminate pathogenic bacteria. These treatments can be applied in the following forms:
  • Spraying: the treatment is applied to the surface of the plant to kill bacteria.
  • Watering: antibiotics can be applied to the soil to prevent the spread of bacteria through the roots.
  • Injections: for some crops, such as trees, antibiotics are injected into the trunk or roots.

2.2. Fungicides:

• Although fungicides do not directly treat bacterial infections, copper- and sulfur-based preparations can be used to protect plants from secondary fungal infections that often develop in the wake of bacterial diseases.

Examples of fungicides:

• Copper-based preparations (e.g., kuprocin, bordeaux mixture) effectively suppress fungal infections but do not treat bacteria.
• Contact fungicides (e.g., sulfur-based products) help prevent fungal growth on damaged areas.

3. Use of biological agents

For organic farming and eco-friendly gardens, biological agents can be used to suppress the development of bacterial diseases and promote plant recovery.

• Trichoderma — this fungus is a natural antagonist to many bacterial pathogens and can help combat bacterial infections.
• Bacillus subtilis — a bacterium that suppresses the growth of pathogenic bacteria and strengthens the plant’s immune system.
• Actibiotics based on bacteria — these preparations contain bacteria that inhibit the growth of bacterial pathogens.

4. Plant and soil treatment

Certain plant and soil treatments help reduce the number of bacteria in the environment and improve the plant’s condition.

4.1. Use of copper-based preparations

• Copper has powerful antiseptic properties and is used for the prevention and treatment of bacterial diseases.
• Copper solutions (e.g., fundazol or ridomil gold) effectively reduce the spread of bacterial pathogens, especially in conditions of high humidity.

4.2. Soil treatment

• To prevent the spread of bacterial diseases through soil, it is important to regularly treat the soil:
  • Soil disinfection through fumigation or the use of antibacterial agents helps reduce the bacterial load in the soil.
  • Drying the soil: preventing over-watering helps reduce conditions conducive to the spread of bacterial infections.

5. Elimination of stress factors

Stress is one of the reasons plants become more susceptible to bacterial infections. Therefore, it is essential to create optimal growing conditions for plants so they can recover.

• Proper watering regimen: plants should be provided with sufficient water, but over-watering should be avoided, as this creates favorable conditions for bacterial growth.
• Control of temperature and humidity: to prevent stress, plants should be grown in stable temperature and humidity conditions that suit their needs.
• Nutrition: regular feeding with balanced fertilizers helps strengthen the plant’s immune system.

6. Local treatments for wounds

Applying wound-healing agents helps prevent bacteria from entering open wounds in plants and accelerates their healing.

• Medical ointments and glycerin-based compounds: these can be used to cover damaged areas, creating a protective barrier.

7. Regular monitoring of plant health

After applying treatment measures, it is important to regularly inspect plants for new signs of disease. This allows for timely adjustments to treatment and prevents re-infection.

• Weekly plant inspections: regular inspections help detect new infections early.
• Monitoring plants in greenhouses: it is crucial to monitor plants in enclosed spaces where conditions for bacterial spread are more easily created.

Treatment of bacterial diseases requires a comprehensive approach, including the use of chemical and biological agents, agronomic measures, and the creation of optimal recovery conditions for the plant. Timely intervention and regular monitoring help minimize damage from bacterial diseases.

Prevention of bacterial diseases in plants

Preventing bacterial diseases is an essential part of plant care, allowing the development of diseases to be stopped, crop losses minimized, and plant health preserved. Key prevention methods include agronomic, chemical, and biological measures aimed at maintaining optimal growing conditions, combating pathogens, and preventing their spread.

1. Choosing resistant plant varieties

Selecting resistant plant varieties is one of the most effective methods for preventing bacterial diseases. Modern plant varieties are generally highly resistant to bacterial diseases.

Recommendations:

• Choose varieties specifically bred for resistance to bacterial infections, such as tomato, cucumber, potato, and ornamental plant varieties resistant to bacterial diseases.
• When purchasing seeds or seedlings, always inquire with sellers about the resistance of selected varieties to bacterial diseases.

2. Crop rotation

Crop rotation helps avoid the accumulation of pathogens in the soil and reduces the risk of bacterial diseases.

Recommendations:

• Do not plant plants susceptible to bacterial diseases in the same location for several consecutive years.
• Alternate crops from different plant families to minimize pathogen build-up in the soil.

3. Sanitation measures

Maintaining good sanitation in the garden or greenhouse is a crucial part of preventing bacterial diseases.

Recommendations:

• Regularly remove plant debris (fallen leaves, old flowers, and damaged parts) as they can be a source of bacterial pathogens.
• Disinfect tools (pruners, shovels, pots) after working with infected plants to prevent spreading bacteria through tools.
• Immediately remove infected plants and dispose of them (burn or throw them away in closed containers) to prevent creating favorable conditions for bacterial reproduction.

4. Control of humidity and improved ventilation

High humidity and poor ventilation contribute to the development of bacterial diseases, so it is important to control these factors.

Recommendations:

• Use drip irrigation to avoid water contact with leaves and stems. This helps reduce the likelihood of bacterial infections.
• Provide good ventilation in greenhouses and between plants to improve air circulation and prevent moisture stagnation.
• Regularly ventilate rooms, especially under high humidity conditions.

5. Use of biological agents

Biological agents can be used to suppress the growth of pathogenic bacteria and prevent bacterial diseases.

Recommendations:

• Trichoderma- and bacillus subtilis-based products help suppress bacterial growth and strengthen plant immunity.
• Natural antagonists such as bioproducts containing bacteria and fungi inhibit the growth of pathogenic microorganisms, improving plant health.

6. Preventive plant treatments

To protect plants from bacterial diseases, preventive treatments with fungicides and antibacterial agents can be used.

Recommendations:

• Copper-based preparations (e.g., bordeaux mixture) and sulfur products are effective for preventing bacterial and fungal diseases.
• For organic farming, use biological products (e.g., bacillus subtilis, trichoderma).
• Conduct treatments during periods of high humidity when the risk of disease is higher.

7. Minimizing mechanical damage to plants

Mechanical damage creates conditions for bacteria to enter the plants, so it is important to avoid stressful situations.

Recommendations:

• Avoid damaging roots, stems, and leaves during planting, transplanting, and pruning.
• Use clean and sharp tools during pruning and removal of diseased parts.

8. Seed and seedling treatment

Before planting or transplanting, it is recommended to treat seeds and seedlings to prevent bacterial diseases.

Recommendations:

• Treat seeds with heat or specialized antiseptic agents to destroy potential pathogens.
• Disinfect seedlings before transferring them to the open ground.

9. Use of pathogen-resistant crops

Some crops are more susceptible to bacterial diseases than others. To reduce the risks of infection, resistant plant varieties can be used.

Recommendations:

• When choosing crops for planting, prefer varieties that are more resistant to bacterial infections, such as disease-resistant potato, tomato, or cucumber varieties.

Preventing bacterial diseases in plants requires a comprehensive approach, including choosing resistant varieties, crop rotation, sanitation measures, humidity control, the use of biological and chemical agents, and protection from mechanical damage. Regular monitoring and timely preventive measures will help maintain plant health and prevent the development of bacterial diseases.

Care for infected plants

Isolation of infected plants

• Separating infected plants from healthy ones prevents the spread of the disease to other plants in the collection. Isolation is an important step in localizing the infection and preventing its spread.

Pruning and removal of affected parts

• Carefully removing infected leaves, stems, and roots helps limit the spread of infection and improve the overall condition of the plant. Clean and sterilized tools should be used to minimize the risk of transferring pathogens.

Plant treatment

• Using appropriate methods to combat pests and pathogens, such as fungicides or bactericides, helps eliminate the cause of the disease. It is important to choose agents suitable for the disease stage and plant type.

Recovery after illness

• Providing regular watering, feeding, and creating optimal conditions for growth helps the plant recover after illness and return to a healthy state. Recovery includes gradually returning to the normal care routine and monitoring the plant’s condition.

Specific recommendations for different types of plants

Flowering plants (orchids, geraniums, philodendrons)

• Flowering plants require more delicate care when dealing with bacterial necrosis. Aggressive treatment methods should be avoided to prevent damage to the flowers. It is recommended to use gentle organic fungicides and conduct regular inspections for signs of disease. Special attention should be paid to providing adequate lighting and avoiding over-watering.

Green foliage plants (pachira, sansevieria, zamioculcas)

• These plants can be resistant to bacterial necrosis with proper care. It is important to provide adequate lighting and avoid over-watering. Regular checks and timely removal of affected parts help maintain plant health. To strengthen immunity, it is recommended to use balanced fertilizers and maintain optimal growing conditions.

Succulents and cacti

• Succulents and cacti require special attention to lighting and humidity conditions. Prevention of bacterial necrosis includes avoiding over-watering the soil and ensuring good ventilation. If the disease occurs, quick action is necessary by removing affected areas and transplanting the plant into fresh, well-drained soil. Using disease-resistant varieties also helps reduce the risk of infection.

Tropical plants (spathiphyllum, ficus benjamina)

• For tropical plants, it is important to maintain optimal temperature and humidity conditions. Fighting bacterial necrosis includes regular checks for pests and bacteria, as well as using specialized treatment methods. Tropical plants require high humidity, but good air circulation must be provided to prevent the development of bacterial infections.

Professional help and consultations

When to consult professionals

• If the disease progresses despite measures taken, the plant does not recover, or there are serious signs of infection, such as extensive root or stem damage, it is advisable to consult professionals. Early consultation with an expert can prevent further deterioration of the plant's condition.

Types of services offered by professionals

• Specialists offer services in diagnosing plant diseases, treating plants with specialized preparations, as well as consultations on plant care and disease prevention. Professionals can provide individualized advice based on specific growing conditions and plant health.

Choosing a specialist

• When selecting a specialist, consider their qualifications, experience with specific types of plants, and reviews from other clients. Reliable specialists have the necessary knowledge and tools to effectively combat bacterial necrosis. It is recommended to contact specialists who have positive reviews and verified experience in horticulture and phytopathology.

Conclusion

Plant bacterial disease is a serious illness that can cause significant damage to houseplants and agricultural crops. However, with the right approach to care, timely diagnosis, and effective treatment methods, this disease can be successfully prevented or treated. It is important to understand that prevention plays a key role in maintaining plant health, and timely intervention helps minimize damage and preserve the ornamental value of green companions.

Importance of regular care and monitoring

• Consistent attention to plant health, regular checks for signs of disease, and proper care help maintain plant health and prevent the development of bacterial necrosis. Regular monitoring allows for timely detection and resolution of problems, ensuring the plants’ resistance to diseases.

Motivation for action

• Apply the knowledge gained in practice to ensure your plants have favorable conditions for growth and development. Active involvement in plant care will help maintain their health and ornamental value for many years. Careful attention and regular monitoring of plant health will help create a healthy and beautiful collection of green companions in your home.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

• How to prevent the appearance of bacterial necrosis?

To prevent the development of bacterial necrosis, it is important to maintain proper watering practices, avoid over-watering, and ensure good ventilation around the plants. It is also necessary to regularly inspect plants for signs of disease, maintain cleanliness, and sterilize tools.

• Which plants are most susceptible to bacterial necrosis?

Plants that are sensitive to high humidity and poor air circulation, such as violets, orchids, and petunias, are most susceptible to bacterial necrosis. Many houseplants with soft leaves and succulent stems are also sensitive to it.

• Can chemical agents be used to fight bacterial necrosis at home?

Yes, fungicides can be used to combat bacterial necrosis. However, it is important to strictly follow the instructions to avoid damaging the plants. For home use, it is better to choose less aggressive products, such as organic fungicides.

• How to accelerate the recovery of a plant after illness?

To help a plant recover, it is essential to provide it with optimal conditions: proper watering, moderate lighting, and feeding. It is also important to remove all infected parts and treat the plant with suitable agents to eliminate any remaining pathogens.

• What symptoms indicate the presence of bacterial necrosis on a plant?

The main symptoms of bacterial necrosis include the appearance of yellow, brown, or grayish spots on leaves and stems, surrounded by light margins. The spots may increase in size, and the leaves lose their turgor and vitality.

• How often should plants be checked for diseases?

It is recommended to regularly check plants at least once a week. It is important to detect any changes, such as discoloration, spots, or wilting, in a timely manner to prevent the development of diseases.

• How to deal with over-watering when caring for plants?

To prevent over-watering, it is important to remember to provide an effective drainage layer in the pot, control watering frequency, and avoid using overly large saucers. It is better to water the plants when the top layer of soil has dried out.

• What organic methods are effective in combating bacterial necrosis?

Organic methods, such as using soapy solutions, neem oil, or garlic infusions, can effectively combat bacterial infections without harming the plants or the environment. These methods are safe and eco-friendly, making them preferable for use at home.

• When should professional help be sought if a plant is infected?

If the disease progresses despite measures taken, and the plant does not recover, or if you notice serious signs of infection, such as extensive damage to the roots or stems, you should consult a specialist.

• How to choose the best fungicide for treating bacterial necrosis?

The best fungicide for treating bacterial necrosis depends on the specific plant and disease stage. Pay attention to products designed for combating bacterial infections, such as copper-based or antibiotic products. It is also important to consider the manufacturer's recommendations and the characteristics of your plant.