Ti Plant "rust" spots?

9 years ago

I am trying to figure out what is wrong with our Ti plant. We are located in SW Florida, near Fort Myers. The plant was planted a year ago, and had no problems at that time. It is planted on the North side of the house, so doesn't get much direct sun. It has "rust" colored spots on its leaves. I don't see any evidence of insects or anything. Can anyone tell me what is going on with it, and perhaps what I should buy to treat it? Thanks! (I have tried to post a photo... not sure if I got that to work...)

Featured Answer

Crenda 10A SW FL

9 years ago

Honestly, I think it is just the change of seasons. After months of rain, we are suddenly in the dry season again - as usual. Now the plants are reacting to less rain. That's my theory, but I welcome opposing opinions!

I would just keep an eye on the plants. This is when my plants start yelling at me to remind me that I need to start watering again! LOL

My product is Liquid Copper Fungicide by Southern AG. But yes, they should be able to help you find it at Lowes or HD.

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Comments (6)

User
9 years ago
last modified: 9 years ago
They lose bottom leaves this time of year. It's natural. When they get too leggy, just cut them back a bit and stick the cut stalk into the ground, where it will root readily. The old stalk will put out new growth. This is how you keep them bushy. Best to do this in the spring and summer, though.
footsox1
Original Author
9 years ago
Hi. Thanks for the advice. I will try it. However, I was a bit concerned about the spots. The leaves don't look like they are normally dying. They have blotches on them that are rusty colored or "orangy." I thought it was some deficiency perhaps. Thanks again.
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User
9 years ago
Do you have a plumeria by any chance? If there is one nearby, they usually get rust this time of year and it can spread to cordylines. Here's some more info on diseases that can affect them.

http://homeguides.sfgate.com/brown-leaves-cordyline-68680.html
Crenda 10A SW FL
9 years ago
Hey, footsox! I'm in the Cape and my Ti plants have taken a beating this year. It started with a very resilient mealy infestation. But the plants are resilient, too, and they have always bounced back.

Are the spots fuzzy like pollen or mold spores, or is that just the color of the spots? I can't find a big obvious example for you today, but this plant is showing some of that spotting. Is this what you mean?

I won't do anything for these spots. When I water I will be sure to hose the leaves, but that's about it.

If it looks like spores, you can treat with a copper solution. I bought the concentrate at HD or Lowes. I'd have to look, but I think the mix is a tablespoon to a gallon. I mix it in a sprayer, hit the plant all over including under the leaves, and since I have so much left over, I will hit the plants again about a week later. That won't damage the plants and it take care of the fungus.

I have something eating holes in mine. I suspect snails or slugs, but I am currently fighting a menagerie of pests, so I'll have to see!

BTW - plant #1 gets no direct sun. Plant #2 get full sun. Quite a difference in color!
footsox1
Original Author
9 years ago
Hi. Thank you so much. Yes! My plants look like the first photo you posted -- only mine look worse -- the spots are bigger and there are more of them. So, you think I should spray with the copper solution you mentioned? Can you tell me a brand name or do I just ask them for a copper spray for plants?? I am sorry - I am not much of a gardener. Thanks for your help!