HOSTA
FOLIAR NEMATODES Foliar nematodes are an emerging problem in Minnesota. They can infect hundreds of species of plants.

Symptoms: Symptoms include wedge-shaped lesions on hosta. Photo by Janna Beckerman

General Information

Causal organism:	Foliar nematodes including Aphelenchoides fragariae
Over wintering:	In plant material, both live and decaying.
Months of infection:	Growing season
Method of dispersal:	Contact between plants and presence of water.
Infection point:	Leaves. Enter plants via stomates (pores).

Control Measures

Control:	Purchase disease-free plants. Remove nematode-infected plants. Minimize foliar wetness. Space plants adequately. Hot water treatment (see link below to Y&G Brief).
Labeled fungicides	None
Comments:	Prevention is the best management strategy for this disease. Inspect all new plants carefully for signs or symptoms.

Definitions & Disclaimer

See Yard and Garden Brief

Back to Diseases of Hosta

Plant Disease Diagnostics
University of Minnesota, Yard and Garden Clinic
Developed (1999) and maintained by
Chad J. Behrendt, Ph.D. and Crystal M. Floyd

For plant disease questions contact the Yard and Garden Line Content Last Updated 09/07/00 View University of Minnesota Disclaimer