It's been a rough year for disease here too. When I pruned yesterday, I was able to snap most of the suckers off. When I needed clippers, I would alternate between two sets and soaked them in bleach water in between. (The cheap pair rusted pretty quick! They are now sanded down and well oiled.)
BW claimed two healthy plants (just like Bill described - healthy to wilt to horrible in two days); TSWV three others (2 of them grafted). I've never had TSWV here before this year. Next season I'll bring back marigolds and try out the yellow sticky cards.
On the good side - I love lean and lower and am getting good fruit set. Since I plant a few (dozen!) extra plants, I can absorb some loss. I'm also planning on a fall planting for the first time.
|