Grey mould (botrytis)
Disease A fluffy grey mould that attacks fruit, flowers and soft stems in damp conditions.
What to look for
Soft brown rot covered in fuzzy grey mould on strawberries, raspberries, tomatoes, grapes and lettuce, and on dying flowers and leaves.
When: Spring to autumn, especially in wet, humid weather.
How to prevent it
- Space plants for good airflow and ventilate greenhouses.
- Water at the base and avoid overcrowding.
- Mulch strawberries with straw to keep fruit off damp soil.
- Remove dead flowers and leaves promptly.
How to deal with it
- Pick off affected fruit and bin it straight away.
- Cut away infected stems to healthy tissue and remove debris.
- Do not compost infected material.
Crops it affects
If you choose to use any treatment, use only products approved for UK home gardens, follow the label and avoid spraying open flowers. See all pests and diseases.