We are having a nasty heat wave with no relief insight. I was watering plants this evening and noticed the leaves on my jalapeño plant turning black ? What would cause this? Will it be ok?
@Nate 77 Black shoot on leaves in most cases is from aphids / whiteflies. Honeydew is excreted from plant-sucking insects like aphids and whiteflies. Sooty mold can damage plants by preventing photosynthesis, which stunts plant growth. Control sooty mold by managing populations of plant-sucking insects, and by controlling air flow to the area by trimming the plant , better air flow. Remove as many leaves as possible be sure to keep a few leaves for photosynthesis. Yellow sticky traps or sprays from water, both sides of leaves or spray with 50/50 whole milk. The fat in whole milk prevents the spores from spreading. Adding lady bugs which eat the larvae of whiteflies and aphids will help control the population once the black shoot is under control. Also use a plastic bag with sticks to hold the bag from touching the plant , poke air holes in the top place in shade until plant has recovered .
Or... Are you fertilizing your peppers? I had that happen when I used a nitrogen fertilizer to speed them up...
