Part 1: Two Plant Diseases

Powdery mildew is a fungal disease caused by different species of fungi, mostly caused by Erysiphe and Sphaerotheca. It affects plants like cucumbers, roses, grapes, and many other garden plants. The fungus thrives in warm, dry conditions and spreads quickly, especially when plants are overcrowded or improperly watered. A major symptom is white, powdery fungal growth on the leaves, stems, and buds. Other problems that occur also include yellowing or browning of the plant tissue, premature leaf drop, which reduces plant vigor, and stunting the plant’s growth.  

Bacterial wilt, a type of plant bacterial disease, is caused by the Bacterium Ralstonia Solanacearum, that infects a wide range of plants, including tomatoes, peppers, and potatoes. The bacterium is soil-borne and enters the plant through the roots, causing blockages in the vascular system. Some symptoms are sudden yellowing and wilting leaves, due to not enough soil moisture. Brown discoloration in the vascular tissues can occur when the stem is cut. All these symptoms can cause the plant to eventually die.