garlic rust

[onionlady]

I've got major rust problems with my autumn planted garlic. Does anyone know if this affects storage?
Never had a problem before but the whole lot is very orange although I'vebeen picking off affected leaves. I'd hate to lose the whole lot if I cant store it, so looking for positive advice, although any will do!

[Lesley Jay]

Hi Onion Lady and welcome! I've just had a read and a bad attack of rust will affect the bulb size but will not affect the keeping quality. You could hoe sulphate of potash around the plants. High potash soils are less susceptible to rust. Treatment would be with Dithane or Folicur. I hope that helps you!

[onionlady]

yes it does thanks. Don't want to use chemicals but will try the potash. Me thinks my soil probably needs a bit of a rest next year and a major dose of manure.
At least I won't lose all my crop.