4-Step Procedure To Get Rid Of Mint Rust

Mint rust is an infection of the rust fungus Puccinia menthae. It is a different kind of rust infection because it causes dusty spots on leaves and pustules. It is a serious infection to look for because it often results in plant death or severe stunting. Even though mint rust infection shows up mostly on mint species, marjoram can also be susceptible. Furthermore, as we all use mint plants mostly for internal consumption, chemical controls are out of the equation. Thus, we need to know how to get rid of this mint rust infection with non-chemical solutions. And this article will show you 4 steps procedure so you can effectively eliminate the mint rust infection.

Step 1

First off, you need to remove all the infected plants as early as possible. The first cycle of the mint rust fungus creates stunted, pale shoots on mint in spring. If at all possible, remove these shoots and destroy them before they develop clusters of pustules, which release infectious spores. If the rust problem is noticed later, remove the infected plants before the rust spots have turned black, as these black spots release spores that overwinter in the rhizomes of the mint and surrounding soil.

Step 2

Transplant healthy plants to a new garden bed, but monitor them carefully for signs of rust infection. If rust spots appear, discard all plants and begin a new mint patch with fresh mint plants or new seed.

Step 3

Prevent mint rust spore that may be present in the rhizomes of plants from surviving winter by washing the rhizomes in water that is 111 degrees Fahrenheit in autumn.

Step 4

Leave in the hot water for 10 minutes then cool them in cold water and replant. Do not exceed 111 degrees Fahrenheit, as this will kill the plant.