Native Plants
![](../_images/smarty_plants.gif)
Q. Who is Mr. Smarty Plants?
A: There are those who suspect Wildflower Center volunteers are the culpable and capable culprits. Yet, others think staff members play some, albeit small, role. You can torture us with your plant questions, but we will never reveal the Green Guru's secret identity.
Did you know you can access the Native Plant Information Network with your web-enabled smartphone?
Ask Mr. Smarty Plants is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
![](../_images/mr_smarty_plants_logo_web_200w.jpg)
rate this answer
![](../_images/star_00.gif)
Sunday - June 12, 2011
From: Downers Grove , IL
Region: Midwest
Topic: Diseases and Disorders
Title: Rust problems on Jack in the Pulpit in IL
Answered by: Anne Bossart
QUESTION:
The last 2 years I have noticed that some of my jack in the pulpit plants have something that makes me think of a copper color rust.It seems to start on the underside of the leaves. What can I do to get rid of it and/or keep it from spreading? Thank you.ANSWER:
Unfortunately, wihtout actually seeing your plants, we cannot make a conclusive diagnosis of your problem. We recommend you contact your local Agricultural Extension office. They will be able to offer suggestions and perhaps have you drop by with a leaf sample.
A quick internet search indicates that Jack in the Pulpit plants are quite susceptible to rust fungi. This comprehensive article by Wikipedia may help you diagnose the problem yourself and will offer treatment suggestions.
The best advice we can offer is to remove infected leaves and destroy them at the first sign of infection. When plants are finished blooming flower stalks should be cut down and destroyed. Good sanitation is necessary as rust spores over-winter on the ground in plant debris. This ehow article on organic rust control may be helpful ... we strongly discourage the use of chemical fungicides.
More Diseases and Disorders Questions
Young oak damaged by falling tree from San Diego TX
June 27, 2012 - My neighbor's Palo Blanco tree was struck by lightning and fell over our fence and on to a young oak tree in our yard. We waited a few days to see if the neighbor would offer help, but he never did,...
view the full question and answer
Is December a good time to prune oaks in Central Texas?
December 29, 2010 - Given that we haven't had much cold weather here in central Texas (Wimberley) this season, is it a good time to trim live and Spanish oak trees (damaged limbs and low hanging branches and suckers)? ...
view the full question and answer
White fungus-like growths on plants from Stephenville TX
May 25, 2013 - What is a white fungus-like growth on plants in a garden? It can be seen on the ground in ball-like shapes similar to puff balls or on plants
view the full question and answer
Rust spots on non-native red tip photinia
July 10, 2008 - I live in Oklahoma and my red tips have rust spots on leaves and some plants are losing leaves. This is a clay soil; can you give me any info. on how to solve this problem?
view the full question and answer
Stressed live oaks from Lakeway TX
August 19, 2013 - I have some Live Oaks who appear to be stressed (Ball Moss is becoming very prevalent on some of them) during the drought in Central TX. How often and how long should I water them? Thank you very much...
view the full question and answer
Support the Wildflower Center by Donating Online or Becoming a Member today. |