Leek Rust

Leek rust is caused by the fungus Puccinia allii.  While severe attacks can reduce yield directly, the main economic impact is from its importance as a leaf blemish that downgrades the quality. As leek rust is active for most of the year, it remains a challenge for control as numerous fungicide treatments may be required on overwintered crops.

In this factsheet you can find out about:

• the background of the disease
• what symptoms to look out for
• what environmental conditions favour the development of infections
• the lifecycle of the pathogen
• information about varietal resistance
• what fungicides to use and when
• what agronomic practices to consider to reduce infections

This information was last updated in 2011.