Variegated Hoya Plant Diseases

by Kandra Sperling

Overview

Hoya blossoms

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Variegated hoya is an evergreen vine with waxy leaves and tiny delicate flower clusters. Healthy plants make beautiful hanging baskets. Hoya plants, also referred to as wax plants, are vulnerable to disease as are most plant species.
Types of Diseases

Hoya plants are susceptible to fungal diseases such as botrytis blight, stem and root rot, according to University of Florida, IFAS Central Florida Research and Education Center.

Features

Botrytis blight causes hoya leaves to collapse and turn mushy, according to the University of Florida. Leaves in the center of the plant are the ones most commonly afflicted.
Facts

Hoya is particularly sensitive to microscopic parasites called nematodes so plants are usually grown in containers where the soil can be controlled. Moisture also can be controlled in pots which is helpful in preventing root rot.
Prevention/Solution

Soil preparation is crucial in prevention of disease in hoya plants. Diseases and pest infestation of cultivated plants are frequently the consequences of unfavorable growing conditions. Plants weakened by temperatures running too high, lack of fresh air, poor light, and excessive amounts of nitrogen are particularly susceptible to disease, according to Harriet Olds of the Colorado Cactus and Succulent Society.
Disease Control

Botrytis can be controlled by reducing humidity in the greenhouse or room where hoya plants are located. Stem rot can be controlled with fungicide. Pythium, Phytophthora spp. and Rhizoctonia root rot can be controlled with soil drench applications, according to the University of Florida.