PlantPal

Orange or rusty spots on leaves

Look for tiny raised spots under the leaf that release orange or brown powder.

Rust on a fig leaf.
Rust on a fig leaf. Photo: Plant pests and diseases · CC0 · Resized and converted for display.

What to check first

Check whether the spots are raised and powdery. They may sit below lighter marks on top of the leaf. Flat brown marks or corky bumps without powder are less typical of rust.

What to do now

Pick up affected fallen leaves. If only a few leaves are badly affected, remove them while dry. Water at the base and give the leaves room to dry.

What to watch next

Check for fresh powdery spots on new leaves. If they keep appearing, find guidance for the plant species before deciding on treatment.

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