Fighting Fungus: Sun-kissed Solutions for Hydrangeas, Roses, Veggies and St. Augustine Grass

As summer heat and humidity rise, so do the threats of fungal diseases and pest infestations across your garden. From hydrangeas to vegetables and roses to turfgrass, midseason maintenance and preventative treatments are essential for keeping your plants thriving. If you’re not sure what’s affecting your garden, bring in a sample to Esposito’s, our experts are here to help diagnose the issue and recommend the best products and plan of action to get things back on track.

Hydrangeas: Stop Black Spot & Downy Mildew in Their Tracks

Hydrangeas are summer showstoppers, but they’re also susceptible to fungal issues like black spot and downy mildew, especially in hot and humid climates. These diseases appear as yellowing or browning leaves, often with black or purplish blotches. To protect your hydrangeas, apply Daconil, a ready-to-use fungicide and miticide derived from neem oil. It works both as a preventative and a curative, and is safe for most ornamental plants.

Summer Pruning Tip: Prune spent blooms and dead or crossing branches to improve airflow and reduce disease risk. For bigleaf and oakleaf hydrangeas, prune right after flowering, as they bloom on old wood. Panicle and smooth hydrangeas can be pruned later in the season as they bloom on new growth.

Insect Control: If you notice chewed leaves or signs of aphids, beetles, or caterpillars, Captain Jack’s Deadbug Brew is a safe and effective choice. It uses spinosad, a natural bacterium, to control pests without harming beneficial insects like bees when used correctly.

Roses: Fungus Fighters and Smart Summer Pruning

Roses are particularly vulnerable to black spot and downy mildew during the summer. These diseases thrive in moist, warm conditions and can quickly defoliate your rose bushes. Two highly effective products to have on hand are Rose Shield and BioAdvanced’s Bayer 3-in-1. Both treat and prevent fungal diseases while also controlling insects and mites.

Summer Pruning Tip: Deadhead faded blooms regularly and remove any diseased or overly crowded growth. Light pruning also encourages airflow and promotes continuous blooming throughout the season.

Vegetable Gardens: Stay Ahead of Disease and Pests

Summer vegetables like tomatoes, squash, and cucumbers are prone to powdery mildew and black spot, especially in tight garden beds. Begin with strategic pruning and staking, remove lower leaves, provide support for vining plants, and ensure good air circulation. This helps keep foliage dry and reduces fungal pressure.

When fungal issues arise, turn to Daconil for vegetables, it’s safe for edible crops and combats both powdery mildew and black spot effectively. Always follow label instructions regarding timing and reapplication.

For pest control, BT (Bacillus thuringiensis) is your best defense against tomato hornworms and other caterpillars. Apply it at the first sign of feeding. For broader pest coverage, Captain Jack’s Deadbug Brew will handle everything from flea beetles to loopers while remaining gentle on pollinators when used in the early morning or evening.

St. Augustine Lawns: Battling Gray Leaf Spot and Summer Fungus

St. Augustine grass is a southern staple, but it’s also a prime target for gray leaf spot and other turf diseases during rainy, humid periods. Look for grayish-brown spots on blades and thinning patches of lawn.

For reliable control, treat affected areas with Daconil or F-Stop. These fungicides are formulated for lawn use and will suppress disease while protecting new growth. Apply early in the morning and avoid mowing or watering immediately after application.

Pro Tip: Avoid overwatering and mowing too low in the summer. Both practices can weaken turf and invite fungus.

Summer gardening is all about balance, managing pests and disease while encouraging new growth. With the right tools like Captain Jack’s, Rose Shield, BT, and Daconil, along with smart pruning and airflow improvements, you’ll be well-equipped to keep your garden healthy and beautiful through the hottest months of the year. And remember, if something looks off in your garden and you’re unsure what to do, bring a sample to Esposito’s, our knowledgeable team can help you identify the problem and create a personalized solution for success.