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Botrytis Blight in Endive

How to identify and treat botrytis blight in Endive.

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Endive care requirements

water
Keep soil consistently moist; water 2–3 times weekly. Mulch to retain moisture and cool soil.
soil
Well-draining, fertile loam with pH 6.0–7.5. Add compost before planting for tender leaves.
light
Full sun (6–8 hours daily); partial shade in hot climates reduces bolting and bitterness.
symptoms

Symptoms to look for in Endive

  • fiber_manual_recordFuzzy grey-brown mould on flowers, leaves, or stems
  • fiber_manual_recordWater-soaked spots that turn brown and mushy
  • fiber_manual_recordBlighted flower buds that fail to open
help

Common causes in Endive

Caused by the fungus Botrytis cinerea (grey mould), which thrives in cool, humid conditions with poor air circulation, often spreading rapidly on damaged or ageing plant tissue.

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How to treat botrytis blight in Endive

Remove and destroy all affected plant material immediately, improve airflow around the plant, and apply a fungicide labelled for Botrytis if the infection is spreading.

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Preventing botrytis blight in Endive

Avoid overhead watering and overcrowding, water at soil level, deadhead spent flowers promptly, and ensure good ventilation, especially in humid weather.