Overwatering can cause oedema

Oedema can occur on ivy geraniums and kalanchoes during periods of cool, cloudy weather. Under these conditions, the growing medium is moist and warm and plants can take in large amounts of water without transpiring it.

Symptoms of oedema are pimplelike blisters that appear on plant leaves as cells swell with water. The cells eventually burst to leave corky lesions on the leaf surface.

University of Maryland extension personnel said that although oedema generally doesn’t have a negative impact on the health of plants, it can greatly reduce their marketability. The easiest solution is not to overwater during overcast, cool periods.

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For more: (301) 596-9413; www.agnr.umd.edu/ipmnet.