What does bud rot look like on pot plants

Bud rot, also known as grey mold or Botrytis cinerea, is a fungal disease that can infect marijuana plants. It can quickly spread and destroy entire plants if not detected early. Knowing how to identify the symptoms of bud rot is essential for any marijuana grower.

Symptoms of bud rot

The first signs of bud rot are brown or grey spots on the flowers or leaves of the plant. These spots may be mistaken for nutrient deficiencies or environmental stresses, but they are a clear indication of fungal infection. As the disease progresses, the spots turn into light brown mushy patches on the buds. These patches soon spread, turning the entire bud into a soft, rotting mass. The affected buds emit a strong, musty odor and may appear to be covered in mold or mildew.

Causes of bud rot

Bud rot is caused by the fungus Botrytis cinerea. This fungus is ubiquitous in nature and can be present in soil, air, and water. It thrives in moist and humid conditions, making marijuana plants grown in such conditions more susceptible to infection. Lack of ventilation, overwatering, and high humidity levels are common factors that contribute to the growth of botrytis cinerea. Contaminated soil, tools, or equipment can also introduce the fungus to a grow room, leading to infection.

Preventing bud rot

Preventing bud rot is crucial for maintaining a healthy marijuana crop. The following preventive measures can help reduce the likelihood of infection:

Avoid high humidity levels in the grow room by providing adequate ventilation and circulation

Water plants only when the soil is dry, being careful not to overwater

Avoid overcrowding plants, as it can cause poor air circulation

Keep grow room surfaces clean and disinfected to prevent the spread of fungus

Remove any infected buds or leaves immediately to prevent spreading of the disease

Treating bud rot

If bud rot has already infected your plants, there are a few steps you can take to limit the damage. The following steps can help treat and prevent bud rot:

Remove any infected buds or leaves carefully, making sure not to spread the spores to healthy parts of the plant

Trim away any nearby healthy buds or leaves that may be in contact with the infected ones to prevent the spread of the fungus

Lower the humidity levels in the grow room as much as possible

Improve the air circulation in the grow room by adding fans or increasing ventilation

Treat the plants with fungicide spray to prevent further infection

It's essential to be vigilant and check your plants for any signs of bud rot regularly. Catching the disease early and taking preventive measures can help keep your marijuana crop healthy and thriving.